bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the Asian monsoon on net ecosystem carbon exchange in two major ecosystems in Korea
Authors: Kwon H. , Kim J. , Hong J. , Lim J.-H.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. Considering the feedback in radiation, temperature, and soil moisture with alterations in rainfall patterns, the influence of the changing monsoon on Net Ecosystem CO2 Exchange (NEE) can be critical to the estimation of carbon balance in Asia. In this paper, we examined CO2 fluxes measured by the eddy covariance method from 2004 to 2008 in two major ecosystems in the KoFlux sites in Korea, i.e., the Gwangneung Deciduous forest (GDK) and the Haenam Farmland (HFK). Our objectives were to identify the repeatability of the mid-season depression of NEE encountered at the two sites based on the single-year observation, and to further scrutinize its cause, effect, and interannual variability by using multi-year observations. In both GDK and HFK sites, the mid-season depression of NEE was reproduced each year but with different timing, magnitude, and mechanism. At the GDK site, a predominant factor causing the mid-season depression was a decreased solar radiation and the consequent reduction in Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) during the summer monsoon period. At the HFK site, however, the monsoonal effect was less pronounced and the apparent mid-season depression was mainly a result of the management practices such as cultivation of spring barley and rice transplantation. Other flux observation sites in East Asia also showed a decline in radiation but with a lesser degree during the monsoon season, resulting in less pronounced depression in NEE. In our study, the observed depressions in NEE caused both GDK and HFK sites to become a weaker carbon sink or even a source in the middle of the growing season. On average, the GDK site (with maximum leaf area index of ~5) was a weak carbon sink with NEE of −84 gC m−2 y−1. Despite about 20% larger GPP (of 1321 gC m−2y−1) in comparison with the GDK site, the HFK site (with maximum leaf area index of 3–4) was a weaker carbon sink with NEE of −58 gC m−2 y−1 because of greater ecosystem respiration (of 1263 gC m−2 y−1). These NEE values were near the low end of the ranges reported in the literature for similar ecosystems in mid-latitudes. With the projected trends of the extended length of monsoon with more intensive rainfalls in East Asia, the observed delicate coupling between carbon and hydrological cycles may turn these key ecosystems into carbon neutral.
Environmental changes on the Balkans recorded in the sediments from lakes Prespa and Ohrid
Authors: Wagner B. , Vogel H. , Zanchetta G. , Sulpizio R.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. Lakes Prespa and Ohrid on the Balkans are considered to be amongst the oldest lakes in Europe. Both lakes are hydraulically connected via karst aquifers. From Lake Ohrid, several up to ca. 15 m long sediment records were studied during the past years. In this study, a first long sediment record from Lake Prespa was studied in order to shed more light on the influence of Lake Prespa on Lake Ohrid and the environmental history of the region. Radiocarbon dating and the occurrence of 3 dated tephra layers provide a good age control and indicate that the 10.5 m long sediment record reaches back to 48 ka. The comparison of the results from this study with those from former studies of the Lake Ohrid cores indicates that Lake Prespa is more susceptible to environmental changes due to its lower volume and water depth. Glacial sedimentation is characterized by low organic matter contents and absence of carbonates in the sediments, which indicate oligotrophic conditions in both lakes. Holocene sedimentation is characterized by particularly high carbonate contents in Lake Ohrid and by particularly high organic matter contents in Lake Prespa, which indicate a shift towards more mesotrophic conditions in the latter. Long-term environmental changes and short-term events, such as the Heinrich events during the Pleistocene or the 8.2 cooling event during the Holocene, are well recorded in both lakes, but partly expressed in different proxies.
Watermasses as a unifying framework for understanding the Southern Ocean carbon cycle
Authors: Iudicone D. , Stendardo I. , Aumont O. , Rodgers K. B. , Madec G. , Bopp L. , Mangoni O. , Ribera d'Alcala' M.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. A watermass-based framework is presented for a quantitative understanding of the processes controlling the cycling of carbon in the Southern Ocean. The approach is developed using a model simulation of the global carbon transports within the ocean and with the atmosphere. It is shown how the watermass framework sheds light on the interplay between biology, air-sea gas exchange, and internal ocean transport including diapycnal processes, and the way in which this interplay controls the large-scale ocean-atmosphere carbon exchange. The simulated pre-industrial regional patterns of DIC distribution and the global distribution of the pre-industrial air-sea CO2 fluxes compare well with other model results and with results from an ocean inversion method. The main differences are found in the Southern Ocean where the model presents a stronger CO2 outgassing south of the polar front, a result of the upwelling of DIC-rich deep waters into the surface layer. North of the subantarctic front the typical temperature-driven solubility effect produces a net ingassing of CO2. The biological controls on surface CO2 fluxes through primary production is generally smaller than the temperature effect on solubility. Novel to this study is also a Lagrangian trajectory analysis of the meridional transport of DIC. The analysis allows to evaluate the contribution of separate branches of the global thermohaline circulation (identified by watermasses) to the vertical distribution of DIC throughout the Southern Ocean and towards the global ocean. The most important new result is that the overturning associated with Subantarctic Mode Waters sustains a northward net transport of DIC (15.7×107 mol/s across 30° S). This new finding, which has also relevant implications on the prediction of anthropogenic carbon redistribution, results from the specific mechanism of SAMW formation and its source waters whose consequences on tracer transports are analyzed for the first time in this study.
Risk management on an alluvial fan: a case study of the 2008 debris-flow event at Villar Pellice (Piedmont, N-W Italy)
Authors: Arattano M. , Conte R. , Franzi L. , Giordan D. , Lazzari A. , Luino F.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. In the Piedmont Region (North-Western Italy), the regional authorities manage debris flow risk by following the ideal sequence of steps that are generally pursued in land planning and civil protection activities. Complex procedures and methods are elaborated and widely discussed with politicians, economists and the general public. On the contrary, in emergency situations, civil protection agencies generally prefer the adoption of simple and flexible criteria. In this paper, a catastrophic debris flow event, that occurred in 2008 in Villar Pellice, is described in this perspective, after an analysis of the triggering rainfalls and of the effects on human life and properties. The availability of a series of personal accounts coming from people who witnessed the occurrences before, during and after the event has allowed us to analyse, in detail, the dynamics of the event. Thanks to these accounts, it has been possible to propose new guidelines for the planning of the emergency activities in areas that are potentially prone to similar impulsive phenomena.
A global comparison of Argo and satellite altimetry observations
Authors: Dhomps A.-L. , Guinehut S. , Le Traon P.-Y. , Larnicol G.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. Differences and complementarities between Sea Level Anomalies (SLA) deduced from altimeter measurements and dynamic height anomalies (DHA) calculated from Argo in situ temperature (T) and salinity (S) profiles are globally analyzed. Compared to previous studies, Argo data allows a much better spatial coverage of all oceans and particularly the Southern Ocean, the use of salinity measurements and the use of a deeper reference level. The use of time series along the Argo float trajectories also provides a means to describe the vertical structure of the ocean both for the low frequency and the mesoscale part of the circulation. The comparison shows the very good consistency between Argo and altimeter observations. Correlations range from 0.9 in low latitudes to 0.3 in high latitudes where the contributions of deep baroclinic and barotropic signals are the largest. The study underlines the large influence of salinity observations on the consistency between altimetry and hydrographic observations. SLA/DHA consistency is thus improved by 35% (relative to the SLA minus DHA signal) by using measured S profiles instead of climatology data. The use of a deep reference level also significantly improves the correlation at mid and high latitudes. The role of seasonal signals on the correlation and regression analysis between altimeter and Argo observations is also analyzed. As they are mainly associated with the heating/cooling of surface layers, removing these large scale signals significantly reduces the correlation and impacts the geographical structure of the Argo/altimetry regression coefficients. These results emphasize the need to separate the different time and space scales in order to improve the merging of the two data sets. The study of seasonal to interannual SLA minus DHA signals finally reveals interesting signals related to deep ocean circulation variations. Future work is, however, needed to understand the observed differences and relate them to different forcing mechanisms.
Do mobile phone base stations affect sleep of residents? Results from an experimental double‐blind sham‐controlled field study
Authors: Danker‐Hopfe Heidi , Dorn Hans , Bornkessel Christian , Sauter Cornelia
Published: May 2010

Objectives:

The aim of the present double‐blind, sham‐controlled, balanced randomized cross‐over study was to disentangle effects of electromagnetic fields (EMF) and non‐EMF effects of mobile phone base stations on objective and subjective sleep quality.

Methods:

In total 397 residents aged 18–81 years (50.9% female) from 10 German sites, where no mobile phone service was available, were exposed to sham and GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications, 900 MHz and 1,800 MHz) base station signals by an experimental base station while their sleep was monitored at their homes during 12 nights. Participants were randomly exposed to real (GSM) or sham exposure for five nights each. Individual measurement of EMF exposure, questionnaires on sleep disorders, overall sleep quality, attitude towards mobile communication, and on subjective sleep quality (morning and evening protocols) as well as objective sleep data (frontal EEG and EOG recordings) were gathered.

Results:

Analysis of the subjective and objective sleep data did not reveal any significant differences between the real and sham condition. During sham exposure nights, objective and subjective sleep efficiency, wake after sleep onset, and subjective sleep latency were significantly worse in participants with concerns about possible health risks resulting from base stations than in participants who were not concerned.

Conclusions:

The study did not provide any evidence for short‐term physiological effects of EMF emitted by mobile phone base stations on objective and subjective sleep quality. However, the results indicate that mobile phone base stations as such (not the electromagnetic fields) may have a significant negative impact on sleep quality. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 22:613–618, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The ethnoprimatological approach in primatology
Authors: Fuentes Agustin , Hockings Kimberley J.
Published: May 2010

Recent and long‐term sympatries between humans and nonhuman primates (hereafter primates) are central to the behavioral ecology, conservation, and evolutionary trajectories of numerous primate species. Ethnoprimatology emphasizes that interconnections between humans and primates should be viewed as more than just disruptions of a “natural” state, and instead anthropogenic contexts must be considered as potential drivers for specific primate behavioral patterns. Rather than focusing solely on the behavior and ecology of the primate species at hand, as in traditional primatology, or on the symbolic meanings and uses of primates, as in socio‐cultural anthropology, ethnoprimatology attempts to merge these perspectives into a more integrative approach. As human pressures on environments continue to increase and primate habitats become smaller and more fragmented, the need for a primatology that considers the impact of human attitudes and behavior on all aspects of primate lives and survival is imperative. In this special issue, we present both data‐driven examples and more general discussions that describe how ethnoprimatological approaches can be both a contribution to the core theory and practice of primatology and a powerful tool in our goal of conservation action. Am. J. Primatol. 72:841–847, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fundamental times, lengths and physical constants: Some unknown contributions by Ettore Majorana
Authors: Esposito S. , Salesi G.
Published: May 2010

We review the introduction in physics of the concepts of an elementary space length and of a fundamental time scale, analyzing some related unknown contributions by Ettore Majorana. In particular, we discuss the quasi‐Coulombian scattering in presence of a finite length scale, as well as the introduction of an intrinsic (universal) time delay in the expressions for the retarded electromagnetic potentials. Finally, we also review a special model considered by Majorana in order to deduce the value of the elementary charge, in such a way anticipating key ideas later introduced in quantum electrodynamics.
Palladium‐mediated synthesis of novel nimesulide derivatives
Authors: Durgadas Shylaprasad , Chatare Vijay kumar , Mukkanti Khagga , Pal Sarbani
Published: May 2010

Synthesis of a series of compounds structurally related to the anti‐inflammatory agent nimesulide has been accomplished via Pd‐catalyzed CC bond forming reactions. Thus 4‐iodo derivative, prepared from nimesulide, participated in Sonogashira (copper‐free), Heck and Suzuki coupling reactions to afford the corresponding alkynyl, alkenyl and aryl substituted products. Some of the compounds synthesized were tested for anti‐inflammatory activities in vivo. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular cloning, genomic structure, and genetic mapping of two Rdl‐orthologous genes of GABA receptors in the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella
Authors: Yuan Guorui , Gao Weiyue , Yang Yihua , Wu Yidong
Published: May 2010

The Resistance to dieldrin (Rdl) gene encodes a subunit of the insect γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor. Cyclodiene resistance in many insects is associated with replacement of a single amino acid (alanine at position 302) with either a serine or a glycine in the Rdl gene. Two Rdl‐orthologous genes of GABA receptors (PxGABARα1 and PxGABARα2) were cloned and sequenced from a susceptible strain (Roth) of Plutella xylostella. PxGABARα1 and PxGABARα2 showed 84% and 77% identity with the Rdl gene of Drosophila melanogaster at an amino acid level, respectively. The coding regions of PxGABARα1 and PxGABARα2 both comprise ten exons, with two alternative RNA‐splicing forms in exon 3 of both genes. At the orthologous position of alanine‐302 in D. melanogaster Rdl, PxGABARα1 has a conserved alanine at position 282. PxGABARα2 has a serine instead of an alanine at the equivalent position. With two informative DNA markers, both PxGABARα1 and PxGABARα2 were mapped onto the Z chromosome of P. xylostella. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Study on syntheses and anticoagulant action of heparin/rare earth nano‐oxides hybrid material
Authors: Wang Kun‐Jie , Li Hong‐Xia , Song Yu‐Min , Luan Ni‐Na , Xian Ping
Published: May 2010

Four hybrid materials of RE2O3‐TDI‐Heparin (TDI = Toluene 2,4–diisocyanate, RE = La, Eu, Nd, Sc) were prepared by the method of graft. The materials were characterized by IR, TG, and SEM, which confirmed that the heparin was grafted on the surface of TDI modified rare earth nano‐oxides. The cell adhesion experiment and the anticoagulant experiment demonstrated that the materials have lower cell toxicity, better cell adhesion as well as better anticoagulant action. In addition, the clotting time of hybrid materials were shortened compared with the heparin. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 93: 887–892, 2010.
Development of a Ruthenium(II) Complex Based Luminescent Probe for Imaging Nitric Oxide Production in Living Cells
Authors: Zhang Run , Ye Zhiqiang , Wang Guilan , Zhang Wenzhu , Yuan Jingli
Published: May 2010

A unique ruthenium(II) complex, bis(2,2′‐bipyridine)(4‐(3,4‐diaminophenoxy)‐2,2′‐bipyridine)ruthenium(II) hexafluorophosphate ([(Ru(bpy)2(dabpy)][PF6]2), has been designed and synthesized as a highly sensitive and selective luminescence probe for the imaging of nitric oxide (NO) production in living cells. The complex can specifically react with NO in aqueous buffers under aerobic conditions to yield its triazole derivative with a high reaction rate constant at the 1010 M−1 s−1 level; this reaction is accompanied by a remarkable increase of the luminescence quantum yield from 0.13 to 2.2 %. Compared with organic probes, the new RuII complex probe shows the advantages of a large Stokes shift (>150 nm), water solubility, and a wide pH‐availability range (pH independent at pH>5). In addition, it was found that the new probe could be easily transferred into both living animal cells and plant cells by the coincubation method, whereas the triazole derivative was cell‐membrane impermeable. The probe was successfully used for luminescence‐imaging detection of the exogenous NO in mouse macrophage cells and endogenous NO in gardenia cells. The results demonstrated the efficacy and advantages of the new probe for NO detection in living cells.
Iron‐Catalyzed Halogenation of Alkanes: Modeling of Nonheme Halogenases by Experiment and DFT Calculations
Authors: Comba Peter , Wunderlich Steffen
Published: May 2010

When the dichloroiron(II) complex of the tetradentate bispidine ligand L=3,7‐dimethyl‐9‐oxo‐2,4‐bis(2‐pyridyl)‐3,7‐diazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane‐1,5‐dicarboxylate methyl ester is oxidized with H2O2, tBuOOH, or iodosylbenzene, the high‐valent FeO complex efficiently oxidizes and halogenates cyclohexane. Kinetic D isotope effects and the preference for the abstraction of tertiary over secondary carbon‐bound hydrogen atoms (quantified in the halogenation of adamantane) indicate that CH activation is the rate‐determining step. The efficiencies (yields in stoichiometric and turnover numbers in catalytic reactions), product ratios (alcohol vs. bromo‐ vs. chloroalkane), and kinetic isotope effects depend on the oxidant. These results suggest different pathways with different oxidants, and these may include iron(IV)– and iron(V)–oxo complexes as well as oxygen‐based radicals.
Regioselective Oxidative Ring Opening of Cyclopropyl Silyl Ethers: A Quantum Chemical Study
Authors: Rinderhagen Heiko , Mattay Jochen , Nussbaum Rafael , Bally Thomas
Published: May 2010

In contrast to the structurally and configurationally stable alkyl‐ or aryl‐substituted cyclopropyl radical cations, cyclopropyl silyl ethers undergo spontaneous ring opening upon oxidation whereby the endocyclic CC(O‐TMS) bond is cleaved with remarkable selectivity. DFT calculations on 1‐trimethylsilyloxybicyclo[4.1.0]heptane show that this selectivity arises from the topology of the potential surface of the corresponding radical cation which is initially generated in a very steep region of the potential surface from where the steepest descent leads to cleavage of the endocyclic rather than the lateral CC(OTMS) bond. Cleavage of the lateral bond leads to interesting conformational changes which are explored in detail.
Centrioles are freed from cilia by severing prior to mitosis
Authors: Parker Jeremy D.K. , Hilton Laura K. , Diener Dennis R. , Qasim Rasi M. , Mahjoub Moe R. , Rosenbaum Joel L. , Quarmby Lynne M.
Published: May 2010

Cilia are necessary for normal tissue development and homeostasis and are generally present during interphase, but not in mitosis. The precise mechanism of premitotic ciliary loss has been controversial, with data supporting either sequential disassembly through the transition zone or, alternatively, a severing event at the base of the cilia. Here we show by live cell imaging and immunofluoresence microscopy that resorbing flagella of Chlamydomonas leave remnants associated with the mother cell wall. We postulated that the remnants are the product of severing of doublet microtubules between the basal bodies and the flagellar transition zone, thereby freeing the centrioles to participate in spindle organization. We show via TEM that flagellar remnants are indeed flagellar transition zones encased in vesicles derived from the flagellar membrane. This transition zone vesicle can be lodged within the cell wall or it can be expelled into the environment. This process is observable in Chlamydomonas, first because the released flagellar remnants can remain associated with the cell by virtue of attachments to the cell wall, and second because the Chlamydomonas transition zone is particularly rich with electron‐dense structure. However, release of basal bodies for spindle‐associated function is likely to be conserved among the eukaryotes. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic evidence for concerted control of actin dynamics in cytokinesis, endocytic traffic, and cell motility by coronin and Aip1
Authors: Ishikawa‐Ankerhold Hellen C. , Gerisch Günther , Müller‐Taubenberger Annette
Published: May 2010

Coronin and actin‐interacting protein 1 (Aip1) are actin‐binding proteins that by different mechanisms inhibit actin polymerization or enhance the disassembly of actin filaments. Cells of Dictyostelium discoideum lacking both proteins are retarded in growth and early development and often fail to proceed to fruiting body formation. Coronin/Aip1‐null cells show numerous surface protrusions enriched in filamentous actin and cofilin. We show that the double‐null cells are characterized by an increase in filamentous actin that causes a thickening of the cell cortex. This imbalance has severe consequences for processes that rely on the dynamic reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton, such as cell motility, cytokinesis and endocytosis. Although cell motility is considerably slowed down, the double‐mutant cells are still capable of orientating in a gradient of chemoattractant. The cytokinesis defect is caused by the lack of proper cleavage furrow formation, a defect that is partially rescued by low concentrations of latrunculin A, an inhibitor of actin polymerization. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the disassembly of the actin coat after phagocytic or macropinocytic uptake is significantly delayed in the double‐mutant cells. Our results prove that coronin and Aip1 are important effectors that act together in maintaining the balance of actin polymerization and depolymerization in living cells. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification and quantification of skeletal myotube contraction and association in vitro by video microscopy
Authors: Langhammer Christopher G. , Zahn Jeffrey D. , Firestein Bonnie L.
Published: May 2010

Skeletal muscle is the largest tissue in the body by weight and plays many roles in maintaining homeostasis and health. Ex vivo cell‐based experimental systems used to study muscle cell contraction, and others based on incorporation of cells into sensitive force transducers or electrophysiology equipment, are time‐consuming, invasive, and not universally available, slowing the pace of research. Video microscopy provides a noninvasive way to record the contractile behavior of skeletal muscle cells in vitro. We have developed a numerical procedure using image processing and pattern recognition algorithms, that makes it possible to quantify contractile behavior of multiple myotubes simultaneously, based on video data. We examined the ability of the program to identify movement using a simplified graphical model of myotube contraction and found that the program's success is dependent on the morphology and movement characteristics of the objects. However, the program performs optimally over the types of motions approximating those observed in culture and identifies contracting myotubes in sample videomicrographs of muscle cells in vitro. This program quantifies contractility on a population level, can be adapted for use in laboratories capable of digital video capture from a microscope, and may be coupled with other experimental techniques to supplement existing research tools. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pentalysine β‐Carbonylphthalocyanine Zinc: An Effective Tumor‐Targeting Photosensitizer for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Zhou Shanyong , Chen Jincan , Deng Yicai , Luo Zhipu , Chen Hongwei , Hamblin Michael R. , Huang Mingdong
Published: May 2010

Unsymmetrical phthalocyanine derivatives have been widely studied as photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy (PDT), targeting various tumor types. However, the preparation of unsymmetrical phthalocyanines is always a challenge due to the presence of many possible structural isomers. Herein we report a new unsymmetrical zinc phthalocyanine, pentalysine β‐carbonylphthalocyanine zinc (ZnPc‐(Lys)5), that was prepared in large quantity and high purity. This is a water‐soluble cationic photosensitizer and maintains a high quantum yield of singlet oxygen generation similar to that of unsubstituted zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc). Compared with anionic ZnPc counterparts, ZnPc‐(Lys)5 shows a higher level cellular uptake and 20‐fold higher phototoxicity toward tumor cells. Pharmacokinetics and PDT studies of ZnPc‐(Lys)5 in S180 tumor‐bearing mice showed a high ratio of tumor versus skin retention and significant tumor inhibition. This new molecular framework will allow synthetic diversity in the number of lysine residues incorporated and will facilitate future QSAR studies.
Rational Design, Synthesis, and DNA Binding Properties of Novel Sequence‐Selective Peptidyl Congeners of Ametantrone
Authors: Gianoncelli Alessandra , Basili Serena , Scalabrin Matteo , Sosic Alice , Moro Stefano , Zagotto Giuseppe , Palumbo Manlio , Gresh Nohad , Gatto Barbara
Published: May 2010

Natural and synthetic compounds characterized by an anthraquinone nucleus represent an important class of anti‐neoplastic agents, the mechanism of action of which is related to intercalation into DNA. Ametantrone (AM) is a synthetic 9,10‐anthracenedione bearing two (hydroxyethylamino)ethylamino residues at positions 1 and 4; along with other anthraquinones and anthracyclines, it shares a polycyclic intercalating moiety and charged side chains that stabilize DNA binding. All these drugs elicit adverse side effects, which represent a challenge for antitumor chemotherapy. In the present work the structure of AM was augmented with appropriate groups that target well‐defined base pairs in the major groove. These should endow AM with DNA sequence selectivity. We describe the rationale for the synthesis and the evaluation of activity of a new series of compounds in which the planar anthraquinone is conjugated at positions 1 and 4 through the side chains of AM or other bioisosteric linkers to appropriate dipeptides. The designed novel AM derivatives were shown to selectively stabilize two oligonucleotide duplexes that both have a palindromic GC‐rich hexanucleotide core, but their stabilizing effects on a random DNA sequence was negligible. In the case of the most effective compound, the 1,4‐bis‐[Gly‐(L‐Lys)] derivative of AM, the experimental results confirm the predictions of earlier theoretical computations. In contrast, AM had equal stabilizing effects on all three sequences and showed no preferential binding. This novel peptide derivative can be classified as a strong binder regarding the sequences that it selectively targets, possibly opening the exploitation of less cytotoxic conjugates of AM to the targeted treatment of oncological and viral diseases.
Cancer treatment cost in the United States
Authors: Tangka Florence K. , Trogdon Justin G. , Richardson Lisa C. , Howard David , Sabatino Susan A. , Finkelstein Eric A.
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND:

There has not been a comprehensive analysis of how aggregate cancer costs have changed over time. The authors present 1) updated estimates of the prevalence and total cost of cancer for select payers and how these have changed over the past 2 decades; and 2) for each payer, the distribution of payments by type of service over time to assess whether there have been shifts in cancer treatment settings.

METHODS:

Pooled data from the 2001 through 2005 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey and the 1987 National Medical Care Expenditure Survey were used for the analysis. The authors used an econometric approach to estimate cancer‐attributable medical expenditures by payer and type of service.

RESULTS:

In 1987, the total medical cost of cancer (in 2007 US dollars) was $24.7 billion. Private payers financed the largest share of the total (42%), followed by Medicare (33%), out of pocket (17%), other public (7%), and Medicaid (1%). Between 1987 and the 2001 to 2005 period, the total medical cost of cancer increased to $48.1 billion. In 2001 to 2005, the shares of cancer costs were: private insurance (50%), Medicare (34%), out of pocket (8%), other public (5%), and Medicaid (3%). The share of total cancer costs that resulted from inpatient admissions fell from 64.4% in 1987 to 27.5% in 2001 to 2005.

CONCLUSIONS:

The authors identified 3 trends in the total costs of cancer: 1) the medical costs of cancer have nearly doubled; 2) cancer costs have shifted away from the inpatient setting; and 3) the share of these costs paid for by private insurance and Medicaid have increased. Cancer 2010. Published 2010 by American Cancer Society.
Active treatment of localized renal tumors may not impact overall survival in patients aged 75 years or older
Authors: Lane Brian R. , Abouassaly Robert , Gao Tianming , Weight Christopher J. , Hernandez Adrian V. , Larson Benjamin T. , Kaouk Jihad H. , Gill Inderbir S. , Campbell Steven C.
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND:

Although nephrectomy cures most localized renal cancers, this oncologic benefit may be outweighed by the renal functional costs of such an approach. In this study, the authors examined overall survival in 537 patients who had localized renal tumors ≤7 cm detected at age ≥75 years to investigate whether surgical intervention improved survival compared with active surveillance.

METHODS:

Clinical T1 renal tumors were managed with surveillance (20%), nephron‐sparing interventions (53%), or nephrectomy (27%). Cox regression models were constructed based on age, comorbidity, management type, renal function, and other variables.

RESULTS:

The median follow‐up was 3.9 years, and death from any cause occurred in 148 patients (28%). The most common cause of death was cardiovascular (29%), and cancer progression was responsible in only 4% of deaths. Kaplan‐Meier analysis revealed decreased overall survival for patients who underwent surveillance and nephrectomy relative to nephron‐sparing intervention (P = .01); however, surveilled patients were older and had greater comorbidity. In multivariate analysis, significant predictors of overall survival included age (P = .0004) and comorbidity (P < .0001) but not management type (P = .3). Preoperative renal function (P = .006) and comorbidity (P = .005) were predictors of cardiovascular mortality, and nephrectomy was associated with greatest loss of renal function.

CONCLUSIONS:

In patients aged ≥75 years, surgical management of clinically localized renal cortical tumors was not associated with increased survival. Patients died mostly of cardiovascular causes, similar to the general elderly population. Nephrectomy accelerated renal dysfunction, which was associated with cardiovascular mortality. Current paradigms suggest that there is over treatment of localized renal tumors, and further study will be required to evaluate the advisability of various options in patients with limited life expectancy. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Effect of Pore Structure on the Nitridation of Mesoporous Silica with Ammonia (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 15/2010)
Authors: Hayashi Fumitaka , Ishizu Ken‐ichi , Iwamoto Masakazu
Published: May 2010

The cover picture shows a new family of mesoporous silicon (oxy)nitrides prepared by the nitridation of mesoporous silicas with ammonia. The (oxy)nitrides obtained maintained their respective regular pore structures. The nitrogen contents could be controlled by the amounts of ammonia supplied. The use of a plug‐flow reactor instead of a usual boat‐type reactor is a key to the successful synthesis of highly nitrided samples. Details are discussed in the article by M. Iwamoto et al. on p. 2235 ff.
Potentiation of the mutagenicity and recombinagenicity of bleomycin in yeast by unconventional intercalating agents
Authors: Hoffmann George R. , Laterza Amanda M. , Sylvia Katelyn E. , Tartaglione Jason P.
Published: May 2010

Interactions between bleomycin (BLM) and conventional or unconventional intercalating agents were analyzed in an assay for mitotic gene conversion at the trp5 locus and reversion of the ilv1‐92 allele in Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain D7. BLM is a potent recombinagen and mutagen in the assay. Various chemicals modulate the genetic activity of BLM, producing either antimutagenic effects or enhanced genotoxicity. Effects of cationic amino compounds include enhancement of BLM activity by aminoacridines and protection against BLM by aliphatic amines. The potentiation of BLM is similar to findings in a micronucleus‐based BLM amplification assay in Chinese hamster V79 cells. In this study, the amplification of BLM activity was explored in yeast using known intercalators, compounds structurally related to known intercalators, and unconventional intercalators that were identified on the basis of computer modeling or results in the Chinese hamster BLM amplification assay. As shown in previous studies, the classical intercalator 9‐aminoacridine (9AA) caused dose‐dependent enhancement of BLM activity. Other compounds found to enhance the induction of mitotic recombination and point mutations in strain D7 were chlorpromazine, chloroquine, mefloquine, tamoxifen, diphenhydramine, benzophenone, and 3‐hydroxybenzophenone. The increased activity was detectable by cotreatment of yeast with BLM and the modulator compound in growth medium or by separate interaction of the intercalator with DNA followed by BLM treatment of nongrowing cells in buffer. The data support the interpretation drawn from micronucleus assays in mammalian cells that BLM enhancement results from DNA intercalation and may be useful in detecting noncovalent interactions with DNA. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 52:130–144, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antibiotic‐loaded chitosan film for infection prevention: A preliminary in vitro characterization
Authors: Smith J. Keaton , Bumgardner Joel D. , Courtney Harry S. , Smeltzer Mark S. , Haggard Warren O.
Published: May 2010

The growing infection rate by methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus, especially with bone fracture fixation implants, is a major concern in extremity musculoskeletal wound treatment. This preliminary investigation evaluates the ability of chitosan film to be loaded with daptomycin and vancomycin in the operating room, in situ loading, and applied to musculoskeletal fixation devices to lessen or prevent infection. Films with 61, 71, and 80% degrees of deacetylation (DDA) made using lactic or acetic acid solvents were analyzed for their antibiotic uptake, elution, and activity along with film swelling ratio, ultimate tensile strength, Young's modulus, adhesive strength, and degradation. Chitosan films after 1 min of rehydration were able in a simulated, clinical setting to maintain mechanical integrity and adhesive strength to be applied to bone fracture fixation devices or implant surfaces. The film percent degradation increased with DDA increasing from 61 to 80%, but film degradation rate decreased in the presence of antibiotics. Eighty percent DDA chitosan films were optimal for absorbing and eluting antibiotics. Antibiotics eluted by the films were active against Staphylococcus aureus. These findings indicate that an 80% DDA chitosan film is potentially advantageous as a clinically adjunctive treatment in musculoskeletal injuries to lessen or prevent infections. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2010
Angiotensin II/angiotensin II type I receptor (AT1R) signaling promotes MCF‐7 breast cancer cells survival via PI3‐kinase/Akt pathway
Authors: Zhao Yanbin , Chen Xuesong , Cai Li , Yang Yanmei , Sui Guangjie , Fu Songbin
Published: May 2010

Angiotensin II (Ang II) is a bioactive peptide of the renin–angiotensin system, acting not only as a vasoconstrictor but also as a growth promoter via angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) in some cancer. In this study, we examined the mechanisms by which Ang II affected the cell proliferation in AT1R‐positive MCF‐7 human breast cancer cells. Ang II stimulated the growth of breast cancer cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. The maximal proliferation effect on MCF‐7 cells was obtained with 10−4 M Ang II at 24 h. Losartan (10−5 M, an AT1R antagonist) significantly decreased the level of Ang‐II‐induced proliferative effects, whereas PD123319 (10−5 M, an AT2R antagonist) had no effects. Moreover, Ang II could significantly accelerate S‐phase progression, which was inhibited by losartan (10−5 M) or LY294002 (50 µM, a PI3‐kinase inhibitor). In addition, Ang II caused rapid activation of p‐Akt in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. 10−4 M Ang II induced a significant increase of p‐Akt in 15 min. The peak level of p‐Akt could be persisted for at least 6 h. Among the signaling molecules downstream of Akt, we revealed that Ang II also significantly upregulated CyclinD1, GSK3β, and downregulated p27. Pretreatment with losartan (10−5 M) or LY294002 (50 µM) could significantly suppress these effects of Ang II. These findings suggest that Ang II plays a role in the growth of AT1R‐positive breast cancer cells through PI3‐kinase/Akt pathway activation. Therefore, targeting Ang II/AT1R signaling could be a novel therapeutic for breast cancer. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 168–173, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lipopolysaccharide induces autophagy through BIRC2 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Meng Ning , Wu LingLing , Gao JianGang , Zhao Jing , Su Le , Su Hua , Zhang ShangLi , Miao JunYing
Published: May 2010

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), as an important proinflammatory agent, targets the endothelium. However, almost all in vitro experiments of the effect of LPS on vascular endothelial cells (VECs) were performed under an artificially decreased concentration of serum that was not enough to maintain the cell growth for a long time. The mechanism underlying LPS action on VECs cultured in a nutrient‐rich condition is not clear. To address this question and mimic the in vivo condition, we investigated the effect of LPS on VEC autophagy, which is involved in numerous physiological processes. The effect of LPS on microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) distribution, LC3‐II accumulation and p62 degradation showed that LPS effectively induced autophagy in VECs cultured in the presence of 20% serum. To understand the mechanism by which LPS triggers the cell autophagy, we first investigated the effects of LPS on the expression of BIRC2 (cIAP1), a well‐known apoptosis inhibitor, and on the kinase activity of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and nuclear translocation of p53. LPS increased BIRC2 expression in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner and elevated the intranuclear level of p53 but had no effect on the mTOR pathway when it triggered VEC autophagy. Furthermore, knockdown of BIRC2 by RNA interference inhibited the autophagy and the translocation of p53 to nuclei induced by LPS. These data suggest a novel role for BIRC2 in LPS‐induced autophagy in VECs. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 174–179, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
TRUSS, TNF‐R1, and TRPC ion channels synergistically reverse endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ storage reduction in response to m1 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor signaling
Authors: Mace Kimberly E. , Lussier Marc P. , Boulay Guylain , Terry‐Powers Jennifer L. , Parfrey Helen , Perraud Anne‐Laure , Riches David W.H.
Published: May 2010

Although most signaling responses initiated by tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) occur in a Ca2+‐independent fashion, TNF‐α receptor signaling augments Ca2+ entry induced by Gαq/11 G‐protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) in endothelial cells and increases trans‐endothelial permeability. The signaling events involved in GPCR‐induced Ca2+ influx have been characterized and involve store‐operated Ca2+ entry facilitated by the Ca2+ permeable ion channel, transient receptor potential canonical 4 (TRPC4). Little is known about the mechanisms by which TNF‐α receptor signaling augments GPCR‐induced Ca2+ entry. TNF‐α Receptor Ubiquitous Signaling and Scaffolding protein (TRUSS) is a tumor necrosis factor receptor‐1 (TNF‐R1)‐associated protein whose gene name is TRPC4‐associated protein (TRPC4AP). The goal of our study was to test the hypothesis that TRUSS serves to link TNF‐R1 and GPCR‐signaling pathways at the level of TRPC4 by: (i) determining if TRUSS and TNF‐R1 interact with TRPC4, and (ii) investigating the role of TRUSS, TNF‐R1, and TRPC4 in GPCR‐induced Ca2+ signaling. Here, we show that TRUSS and TNF‐R1 interact with a sub‐family of TRPC channels (TRPC1, 4, and 5). In addition, we show that TRUSS and TNF‐R1 function together with TRPC4 to elevate endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ filling in the context of reduced endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ storage initiated by G‐protein coupled m1 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (m1AchR) signaling. Together, these findings suggest that TNF‐R1, TRUSS, and TRPC4 augment Ca2+ loading of endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ stores in the context of m1AchR stimulation and provide new insights into the mechanisms that connect TNF‐R1 to GPCR‐induced Ca2+ signaling. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 444–453, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Centrosome biogenesis continues in the absence of microtubules during prolonged S‐phase arrest
Authors: Collins Elizabeth S. , Hornick Jessica E. , Durcan Thomas M. , Collins Nicholas S. , Archer William , Karanjeet Kul B. , Vaughan Kevin T. , Hinchcliffe Edward H.
Published: May 2010

When CHO cells are arrested in S‐phase, they undergo repeated rounds of centrosome duplication without cell‐cycle progression. While the increase is slow and asynchronous, the number of centrosomes in these cells does rise with time. To investigate mechanisms controlling this duplication, we have arrested CHO cells in S‐phase for up to 72 h, and coordinately inhibited new centriole formation by treatment with the microtubule poison colcemid. We find that in such cells, the pre‐existing centrosomes remain, and a variable number of foci—containing α/γ‐tubulin and centrin 2—assemble at the nuclear periphery. When the colcemid is washed out, the nuclear‐associated foci disappear, and cells assemble new centriole‐containing centrosomes, which accumulate the centriole scaffold protein SAS‐6, nucleate microtubule asters, and form functional mitotic spindle poles. The number of centrosomes that assemble following colcemid washout increases with duration of S‐phase arrest, even though the number of nuclear‐associated foci or pre‐existing centrosomes does not increase. This suggests that during S‐phase, a cryptic generative event occurs repeatedly, even in the absence of new triplet microtubule assembly. When triplet microtubule assembly is restored, these cryptic generative events become realized, and multiple centriole‐containing centrosomes assemble. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 454–465, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Articular cartilage repair with autologous bone marrow mesenchymal cells
Authors: Matsumoto Tomiya , Okabe Takahiro , Ikawa Tesshu , Iida Takahiro , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Nakamura Hiroaki , Wakitani Shigeyuki
Published: May 2010

Articular cartilage defects that do not repair spontaneously induce osteoarthritic changes in joints over a long period of observation. In this study, we examined the usefulness of transplanting culture‐expanded bone marrow mesenchymal cells into osteochondral defects of joints with cartilage defects. First, we performed experiments on rabbits and up on obtaining good results proceeded to perform the experiments on humans. Macroscopic and histological repair with this method was good, and good clinical results were obtained although there was no significant difference with the control group. Recent reports have indicated that this procedure is comparable to autologous chondrocyte implantation, and concluded that it was a good procedure because it required one step less than that required by surgery, reduced costs for patients, and minimized donor site morbidity. Although some reports have previously shown that progenitor cells formed a tumor when implanted into immune‐deficient mice after long term in vitro culture, the safety of the cell transplantation was confirmed by our clinical experience. Thus, this procedure is useful, effective, and safe, but the repaired tissues were not always hyaline cartilage. To obtain better repair with this procedure, treatment approaches using some growth factors during in vitro culture or gene transfection are being explored. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 291–295, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of osteoblast and osteoclast functions by FGF‐6
Authors: Bosetti Michela , Leigheb Massimiliano , Brooks Roger A. , Boccafoschi Francesca , Cannas Mario F.
Published: May 2010

Fibroblast growth factor‐6 (FGF‐6) is known to be the key ligand for fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) during muscle regeneration but its role in bone has yet to be verified. FGFR signaling is known to be important in the initiation and regulation of osteogenesis, so in this study the actions of FGF‐6 on human osteoblasts and osteoclasts were investigated. Human primary osteoblasts (hOB) were used to study the effect of FGF‐6 on proliferation (by ATP quantification), signal transduction (by ERK and AKT phosphorylation), differentiation (by alkaline phosphatase activity, APA), and mineralization (by calcein staining). To study FGF‐6 activity on osteoclast differentiation, human bone marrow cells were used and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) multinucleated cells together with actin filaments arrangements were quantified. Human primary mature osteoclasts were used to evaluate the effect of FGF‐6 on osteoclast reabsorbing activity by reabsorbed pit measurements. FGF‐6 >10−9 M as FGF‐2 10−7 M induced hOB proliferation mediated by pERK together with a reduction in APA and reduced mineralization of the treated cells. Moreover FGF‐6 increased the formation of TRAP‐positive multinucleated cells in a dose‐dependent manner (maximal effect at 10−8 M). FGF‐6‐treated cells showed also a greater percentage of cells that formed typical osteoclast sealing zones. Mature osteoclasts cultured on dentine slice increased the area of reabsorption with a maximal effect of FGF‐6 at 10−12 M. FGF‐6 may be considered a regulator of bone metabolism as shown by its activity on both osteoblasts and osteoclasts. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 466–471, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.