bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Ionic Strength on Electrochemical Responses of Myoglobin Loaded in Polysaccharide Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly Films
Authors: Liu Yan , Liu Hongyun , Guo Xihong , Hu Naifei
Published: June 2010

Two polysaccharides hydroxyethyl cellulose ethoxylate (HECE) and hyaluronic acid (HA) were assembled into {HECE/HA}n layer‐by‐layer films on electrodes. The films were then immersed in myoglobin (Mb) solutions to load Mb into the films. The Mb‐loaded films showed a nearly reversible cyclic voltammetric (CV) peak pair at −0.34 V vs. SCE in pH 7.0 buffers. The effect of ionic strength in Mb loading solutions and CV testing solutions on the CV response of the films was investigated. The direct electrochemistry of Mb loaded in the films could also be used to electrocatalyze the reduction of oxygen and H2O2 in solution.
Influence of fermentation metabolites on redox potential in anaerobic digestion of proteinaceous solid wastes by Synergistes sp.
Authors: Kumar Arumugam Ganesh , Kirubagaran Ramalingam , Nagesh Narayana , Parrado Rubio Juan , Sekaran Ganesan
Published: June 2010

The anaerobic digestion of animal fleshing from tannery solid waste was investigated with regard to hydrolytic enzymes, protease and lipase, fermentative enzyme deaminase, soluble protein and amino acids, redox potential (Eh), volatile fatty acids, ammonia and carbon dioxide up to 120 h of retention time. The release of these fermentation metabolites at various retention times greatly influenced the Eh. In the hydrolytic phase, the maximum value of Eh was −50 mV and it reached the minimum of −350 mV in 24 h in the fermentative phase. The minimum and maximum values of Eh were −387 and −452 mV at 80 h of anaerobic digestion. The release of extracellular metabolites was confirmed by HPLC and GC‐MS. In this study, we have found that the ammonia and pH had a substantial influence on the Eh during the anaerobic digestion of animal fleshing.
Term Structure Forecasting: No‐Arbitrage Restrictions versus Large Information Set
Authors: Favero Carlo A. , Niu Linlin , Sala Luca
Published: June 2010

This paper addresses the issue of forecasting term structure. We provide a unified state‐space modeling framework that encompasses different existing discrete‐time yield curve models. Within such a framework we analyze the impact of two modeling choices, namely the imposition of no‐arbitrage restrictions and the size of the information set used to extract factors, on forecasting performance. Using US yield curve data, we find that both no‐arbitrage and large information sets help in forecasting but no model uniformly dominates the other. No‐arbitrage models are more useful at shorter horizons for shorter maturities. Large information sets are more useful at longer horizons and longer maturities. We also find evidence for a significant feedback from yield curve models to macroeconomic variables that could be exploited for macroeconomic forecasting. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detection of SNP‐SNP interactions in trios of parents with schizophrenic children
Authors: Li Qing , Fallin M. Daniele , Louis Thomas A. , Lasseter Virginia K. , McGrath John A. , Avramopoulos Dimitri , Wolyniec Paula S. , Valle David , Liang Kung‐Yee , Pulver Ann E. , Ruczinski Ingo
Published: June 2010

Schizophrenia (SZ) is a heritable and complex psychiatric disorder with an estimated worldwide prevalence of about 1%. Research on the risk factors for SZ has thus far yielded few clues to causes, but has pointed to a heterogeneous etiology that likely involves multiple genes and gene‐environment interactions. In this manuscript, we apply a novel method (trio logic regression, Li et al., 2009) to case‐parent trio data from a SZ candidate gene study conducted on families of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, and demonstrate the method's ability to detect multi‐gene models for SZ risk in the family‐based design. In particular, we demonstrate how this method revealed a genotype‐phenotype association that includes an allele without marginal effect. Genet. Epidemiol. 34: 396–406, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Estimates of worldwide burden of cancer in 2008: GLOBOCAN 2008
Authors: Ferlay Jacques , Shin Hai‐Rim , Bray Freddie , Forman David , Mathers Colin , Parkin Donald Maxwell
Published: June 2010

Estimates of the worldwide incidence and mortality from 27 cancers in 2008 have been prepared for 182 countries as part of the GLOBOCAN series published by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. In this article, we present the results for 20 world regions, summarizing the global patterns for the eight most common cancers. Overall, an estimated 12.7 million new cancer cases and 7.6 million cancer deaths occur in 2008, with 56% of new cancer cases and 63% of the cancer deaths occurring in the less developed regions of the world. The most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide are lung (1.61 million, 12.7% of the total), breast (1.38 million, 10.9%) and colorectal cancers (1.23 million, 9.7%). The most common causes of cancer death are lung cancer (1.38 million, 18.2% of the total), stomach cancer (738,000 deaths, 9.7%) and liver cancer (696,000 deaths, 9.2%). Cancer is neither rare anywhere in the world, nor mainly confined to high‐resource countries. Striking differences in the patterns of cancer from region to region are observed.
Metabolic syndrome and risk of bladder cancer: prospective cohort study in the metabolic syndrome and cancer project (Me‐Can)
Authors: Häggström Christel , Stocks Tanja , Rapp Kilian , Bjørge Tone , Lindkvist Björn , Concin Hans , Engeland Anders , Manjer Jonas , Ulmer Hanno , Selmer Randi , Tretli Steinar , Hallmans Göran , Jonsson Håkan , Stattin Pär
Published: June 2010

There are little data on the putative association between factors in the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and risk of bladder cancer. In the Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer project (Me‐Can), measurements of height, weight, blood pressure and circulating levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides had been collected from 578,700 subjects in cohorts in Norway, Austria, and Sweden. We used Cox proportional hazard models to calculate relative risks (RRs) of bladder cancer by exposures divided into quintiles, in categories according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and as a continuous standardized variable (z‐score with mean = 0 and standard deviation = 1) for each separate component and its standardized sum, a composite MetS score. RRs were corrected for random error in measurements. During a mean follow‐up of 11.7 years (SD = 7.6), 1,587 men and 327 women were diagnosed with bladder cancer. Significant associations with risk were found among men per one unit increment of z‐score for blood pressure, RR = 1.13 (95% CI 1.03–1.25), and the composite MetS score, RR = 1.10 (95% CI 1.01–1.18). Among women, glucose was nonsignificantly associated with risk, RR = 1.41 (95% CI 0.97–2.06). No statistically significant interactions were found between the components in the MetS in relation to bladder cancer risk. Hypertension and a composite MetS score were significantly but modestly associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer among men and elevated glucose was associated with a nonsignificant increase in risk among women.
Genetic variation in the TNFRSF11A gene encoding RANK is associated with susceptibility to Paget's disease of bone
Authors: Chung Pui Yan Jenny , Beyens Greet , Riches Philip L , Van Wesenbeeck Liesbeth , de Freitas Fenna , Jennes Karen , Daroszewska Anna , Fransen Erik , Boonen Steven , Geusens Piet , Vanhoenacker Filip , Verbruggen Leon , Van Offel Jan , Goemaere Stefan , Zmierczak Hans-Georg , Westhovens René , Karperien Marcel , Papapoulos Socrates , Ralston Stuart H , Devogelaer Jean-Pierre , Van Hul Wim
Published: June 2010

RANK (receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB), encoded by TNFRSF11A, is a key protein in osteoclastogenesis. TNFRSF11A mutations cause Paget's disease of bone (PDB)–like diseases (ie, familial expansile osteolysis, expansile skeletal hyperphosphatasia, and early-onset PDB) and an osteoclast-poor form of osteopetrosis. However, no TNFRSF11A mutations have been found in classic PDB, neither in familial nor in isolated cases. To investigate the possible relationship between TNFRSF11A polymorphisms and sporadic PDB, we conducted an association study including 32 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 196 Belgian sporadic PDB patients and 212 control individuals. Thirteen SNPs and 3 multimarker tests (MMTs) turned out to have a p value of between .036 and 3.17 × 10−4, with the major effect coming from females. Moreover, 6 SNPs and 1 MMT withstood the Bonferroni correction (p < .002). Replication studies were performed for 2 nonsynonymous SNPs (rs35211496 and rs1805034) in a Dutch and a British cohort. Interestingly, both SNPs resulted in p values ranging from .013 to 8.38 × 10−5 in both populations. Meta-analysis over three populations resulted in p = .002 for rs35211496 and p = 1.27 × 10−8 for rs1805034, again mainly coming from the female subgroups. In an attempt to identify the underlying causative SNP, we performed functional studies for the coding SNPs as well as resequencing efforts of a 31-kb region harboring a risk haplotype within the Belgian females. However, neither approach resulted in significant evidence for the causality of any of the tested genetic variants. Therefore, further studies are needed to identify the real cause of the increased risk to develop PDB shown to be present within TNFRSF11A. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Simvastatin induces osteogenic differentiation of murine embryonic stem cells
Authors: Pagkalos Joseph , Cha Jae Min , Kang Yunyi , Heliotis Manolis , Tsiridis Eleftherios , Mantalaris Athanasios
Published: June 2010

Statins are potent inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis. Several statins are available with different molecular and pharmacokinetic properties. Simvastatin is more lipophilic than pravastatin and has a higher affinity to phospholipid membranes than atorvastatin, allowing its passive diffusion through the cell membrane. In vitro studies on bone marrow stromal cells, osteoblast-like cells, and embryonic stem cells have shown statins to have cholesterol-independent anabolic effects on bone metabolism; alas, statins were supplemented in osteogenic medium, which does not facilitate elucidation of their potential osteoinductive properties. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs), derived from the inner cell mass of the blastocyst, are unique in that they enjoy perpetual self-proliferation, are pluripotent, and are able to differentiate toward all the cellular lineages composing the body, including the osteogenic lineage. Consequently, ESCs represent a potentially potent cell source for future clinical cellular therapies of various bone diseases, even though there are several hurdles that still need to be overcome. Herein we demonstrate, for the first time to our knowledge, that simvastatin induces murine ESC (mESC) differentiation toward the osteogenic lineage in the absence of osteoinductive supplements. Specifically, we found that a simvastatin concentration in the micromolar range and higher was toxic to the cells and that an effective concentration for osteoinduction is 0.1 nM, as shown by increased alizarin red staining as well as increased osteocalcin and osetrix gene expression. These results suggest that in the future, lipophilic simvastatin may provide a novel pharmacologic agent for bone tissue engineering applications. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Dab1 binds to Fe65 and diminishes the effect of Fe65 or LRP1 on APP processing
Authors: Kwon Oh Yeun , Hwang Kyounghee , Kim Jeom‐A , Kim Kwangmyung , Kwon Ick Chan , Song Hyun Kyu , Jeon Hyesung
Published: June 2010

Fe65 and Dab1 are adaptor proteins that interact with the cytoplasmic domain of amyloid precursor protein (APP) via phosphotyrosine‐binding (PTB) domain and that affect APP processing and Aβ production. Co‐expression of Dab1 with Fe65 and APP resumed nuclear translocation of Fe65 despite of its cytoplasmic anchor, APP. The decreased amount of Fe65 bound to APP was shown in co‐immunoprecipitation assay from the cells with Dab1 which also displayed the effect on APP processing. These data suggested that Fe65 and Dab1 compete for binding to APP. Surprisingly, we found that Fe65 interacts with Dab1 via C‐terminal region of Dab1 and unphosphorylated Dab1 is capable of binding Fe65. Dab1 interacts with the low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein (LRP) as well as APP through its PTB domain. Dab1 significantly decreased the amount of APP bound to LRP and the level of secreted APP and APP‐CTF in LRP expressing cells, unlike Fe65. It implies that overexpression of Dab1 diminish LRP–APP complex formation, resulting in altered APP processing. The competition for overlapped binding site among adaptor proteins may be related to the regulation mechanism of APP metabolism in various conditions. J. Cell. Biochem. 111: 508–519, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cellular stress induced by resazurin leads to autophagy and cell death via production of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial impairment
Authors: Erikstein Bjarte S. , Hagland Hanne R. , Nikolaisen Julie , Kulawiec Mariola , Singh Keshav K. , Gjertsen Bjørn T. , Tronstad Karl J.
Published: June 2010

Mitochondrial bioenergetics and reactive oxygen species (ROS) often play important roles in cellular stress mechanisms. In this study we investigated how these factors are involved in the stress response triggered by resazurin (Alamar Blue) in cultured cancer cells. Resazurin is a redox reactive compound widely used as reporter agent in assays of cell biology (e.g. cell viability and metabolic activity) due to its colorimetric and fluorimetric properties. In order to investigate resazurin‐induced stress mechanisms we employed cells affording different metabolic and regulatory phenotypes. In HL‐60 and Jurkat leukemia cells resazurin caused mitochondrial disintegration, respiratory dysfunction, reduced proliferation, and cell death. These effects were preceded by a burst of ROS, especially in HL‐60 cells which were also more sensitive and contained autophagic vesicles. Studies in Rho0 cells (devoid of mitochondrial DNA) indicated that the stress response does not depend on the rates of mitochondrial respiration. The anti‐proliferative effect of resazurin was confirmed in native acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) blasts. In conclusion, the data suggest that resazurin triggers cellular ROS production and thereby initiates a stress response leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, reduced proliferation, autophagy, and cell degradation. The ability of cells to tolerate this type of stress may be important in toxicity and chemoresistance. J. Cell. Biochem. 111: 574–584, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
RNA interference and ovarian functions
Authors: Sirotkin Alexander V.
Published: June 2010

RNA interference, a recently discovered new mechanism controlling gene expression via small RNAs, was shown to be involved in characterization and control of basic ovarian cell functions. The main classes of small RNAs, as well as their expression in ovaries have been described. Furthermore, the successful application of RNA interference for study and control of basic ovarian functions (proliferation, apoptosis, secretory activity, luteogenesis, oocyte maturation, and related ovarian cell malignant transformation) and production of recombinant proteins have been demonstrated. Application of RNA interference in reproductive biology and medicine can be successful in two main areas: (1) characterization and prediction of physiological and pathological state (association between particular small RNA and physiological or pathological processes), (2) application of small RNAs for regulation of reproductive processes and treatment of reproductive disorders or their particular indexes. Problems of improvement of small RNA delivery to target ovarian cells and potent RNA interference‐related approaches for treatment of ovarian disorders (especially of ovarian cancer) have been discussed. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 354–363, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of high fat diet enriched with unsaturated and diet rich in saturated fatty acids on sphingolipid metabolism in rat skeletal muscle
Authors: Blachnio‐Zabielska Agnieszka , Baranowski Marcin , Zabielski Piotr , Gorski Jan
Published: June 2010

Consumption of high fat diet leads to muscle lipid accumulation which is an important factor involved in induction of insulin resistance. Ceramide is likely to partially inhibit insulin signaling cascade. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of different high fat diets on ceramide metabolism in rat skeletal muscles. The experiments were carried out on rats fed for 5 weeks: (1) a standard chow and (2) high fat diet rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and (3) diet enriched with saturated fatty acids (SAT). Assays were performed on three types of muscles: slow‐twitch oxidative (soleus), fast‐twitch oxidative–glycolytic, and fast‐twitch glycolytic (red and white section of the gastrocnemius, respectively). The activity of serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT), neutral and acid sphingomyelinase (n‐ and aSMase), and neutral and alkaline ceramidase (n‐ and alCDase) was examined. The content of ceramide, sphinganine, sphingosine, and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate was also measured. The ceramide content did not change in any muscle from PUFA diet group but increased in the SAT diet group by 46% and 52% in the soleus and red section of the gastrocnemius, respectively. Elevated ceramide content in the SAT diet group could be a result of increased SPT activity and simultaneously decreased activity of nCDase. Unchanged ceramide content in the PUFA diet group might be a result of increased activity of SPT and alCDase and simultaneously decreased activity of SMases. We conclude that regulation of muscle ceramide level depends on the diet and type of skeletal muscle. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 786–791, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Attenuation of CXCR4 responses by CCL18 in acute lymphocytic leukemia B cells
Authors: Catusse J. , Wollner S. , Leick M. , Schröttner P. , Schraufstätter I. , Burger M.
Published: June 2010

CCL18 and CXCL12 are homeostatic chemokines with high constitutive concentrations in serum. Elevated levels of CCL18 have been described in various diseases including childhood acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) but its functions remain poorly characterized. Its receptor has not been identified, but functional cellular responses like lymphocyte chemotaxis have been described. CXCL12 is a pivotal chemokine for hematopoiesis and B cell homing processes. We demonstrate that CCL18 interferes with CXCL12‐mediated pre‐B ALL cell activation. CXCL12‐induced calcium mobilization, chemotaxis, pseudo‐emperipolesis and cellular proliferation could be significantly reduced by CCL18 in pre‐B ALL cell lines. The results could be observed in primary cells from patients suffering from pre‐B ALL, but not in cells from patients suffering from common ALL. Direct effects of CCL18 on the receptor for CXCL12, CXCR4, could be excluded. Moreover, we found that CCL18 modulations of CXCL12‐induced responses are mediated through the chemokine‐like receptor GPR30. CCL18 bound to GPR30 expressing cells, and antibodies against GPR30 abolished this binding as well as CCL18‐mediated functional effects. We also observed that, CCL18 interferes with the activation of GPR30 by previously identified ligands (17β‐estradiol and chemical agonists). We therefore suggest that CCL18 is an important modulator of CXCR4‐dependent responses in pre‐B ALL cells via interactions with GPR30. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 792–800, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pentadactyl ground state of the manus of Alligator mississippiensis and insights into the evolution of digital reduction in Archosauria
Authors: Larsson Hans C.E. , Heppleston Audrey C. , Elsey Ruth M.
Published: June 2010

The three‐fingered state of the avian manus poses intriguing questions about the evolution of digit reduction. Although digit reduction in most tetrapods appears to be the product of straightforward digit loss, avian digit reduction may have occurred with a dissociation of digit position from digit identity. The three digits of birds have the ancestral identities of I, II, and III but develop from an early pentadactyl ground state from digital anlage 2, 3, and 4. A series of hypotheses have been proposed in an attempt to explain this disparity, including a recent suggestion that the anteriormost condensation visible in the avian limb bud is in fact a vestigial structure from a hexadactyl ancestral ground state. We investigated this proposal by presenting sets of compatible evolutionary developmental trajectories starting from a hexadactyl state to test hypotheses of digit reduction. The development of skeletogenic mesenchymal condensations in a crocodylian, the closest extant relative to birds, is used to identify any extra precartiloginous digital vestiges. A developmental series of Alligator mississippiensis forelimb buds reveal only five digital anlagen, supports a pentadactyl ground state for the archosaurian manus, and rejects portions of the evolutionary developmental trajectories proposed. This condition lends further support to the contribution of a homeotic transformation during digit reduction in avian ancestry to account for the dissociation between digital identity and developmental position. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 314B:571–579, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of new naphthoquinone‐containing pyrrolo‐thiazoles as anticancer agents
Authors: Lopes Susana M. M. , Laranjo Mafalda , Serra Arménio C. , Abrantes Ana Margarida , Rocha Gonsalves António M. d'A. , Botelho Maria Filomena , Beja Ana Matos , Silva Manuela Ramos , Pinho e Melo Teresa M. V. D.
Published: June 2010

magnified image

Naphthoquinones undergo 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition with bicyclic münchnones generated from thiazolidines affording new pyrrolo‐thiazoles with a fused quinone nucleus. The products were obtained as single enantiomers in good yields. These benzo[f]thiazolo[4,3‐a]isoindole‐6,11(1H,3H)‐diones are comprised of four fused rings and present a very planar structure. The evaluation of their anticancer activity against melanoma A375 and colorectal adenocarcinoma WiDr human cell lines showed only moderate activity but gave insight into the modeling of new structures. [Color figure can be viewed in the online issue, which is available at www.interscience.wiley.com.] J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2010).
Combination of olfactory ensheathing cells with local versus systemic cAMP treatment after a cervical rubrospinal tract injury
Authors: Bretzner Frederic , Plemel Jason R. , Liu Jie , Richter Miranda , Roskams A. Jane , Tetzlaff Wolfram
Published: June 2010

The failure of CNS axons to regenerate following traumatic injury is due in part to a growth‐inhibitory environment in CNS as well as a weak intrinsic neuronal growth response. Olfactory ensheathing cell (OECs) transplants have been reported to create a favorable environment promoting axonal regeneration, remyelination, and functional recovery after spinal cord injury. However, in our previous experiments, OEC transplants failed to promote regeneration of rubrospinal axons through and beyond the site of a dorsolateral funiculus crush in rats. Rubrospinal neurons undergo massive cell atrophy and limited expression of regeneration‐associated genes after axotomy. Using the same injury model, we tested the hypothesis that treatment of the red nucleus with cAMP, known to stimulate the intrinsic growth response in other neurons, will promote rubrospinal regeneration in combination with OEC transplants. In addition, we assessed a systemic increase of cAMP using the phosphodiesterase inhibitor rolipram. OECs prevented cavity formation, attenuated astrocytic hypertrophy and the retraction of the axotomized rubrospinal axons, and tended to reduce the overall lesion size. OEC transplantation lowered the thresholds for thermal sensitivity of both forepaws. None of our treatments, alone or in combination, promoted rubrospinal regeneration through the lesion site. However, the systemic elevation of cAMP with rolipram resulted in greater numbers of OECs and axonal density within the graft and improved motor performance in a cylinder test in conjunction with enhanced rubrospinal branching and attenuated astrocytic hypertrophy. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Astrocyte‐derived interleukin‐6 promotes specific neuronal differentiation of neural progenitor cells from adult hippocampus
Authors: Oh Jisun , McCloskey Michael A. , Blong Christopher C. , Bendickson Lee , Nilsen‐Hamilton Marit , Sakaguchi Donald S.
Published: June 2010

The purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of astrocyte‐derived factors to influence neural progenitor cell differentiation. We previously demonstrated that rat adult hippocampal progenitor cells (AHPCs) immunoreactive for the neuronal marker class III β‐tubulin (TUJ1) were significantly increased in the presence of astrocyte‐derived soluble factors under noncontact coculture conditions. Using whole‐cell patch‐clamp analysis, we observed that the cocultured AHPCs displayed two prominent voltage‐gated conductances, tetraethyl ammonium (TEA)‐sensitive outward currents and fast transient inward currents. The outward and inward current densities of the cocultured AHPCs were approximately 2.5‐fold and 1.7‐fold greater, respectively, than those of cells cultured alone. These results suggest that astrocyte‐derived soluble factors induce neuronal commitment of AHPCs. To investigate further the activity of a candidate neurogenic factor on AHPC differentiation, we cultured AHPCs in the presence or absence of purified rat recombinant interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). We also confirmed that the astrocytes used in this study produced IL‐6 by ELISA and RT‐qPCR. When AHPCs were cultured with IL‐6 for 6–7 days, the TUJ1‐immunoreactive AHPCs and the average length of TUJ1‐immunoreactive neurites were significantly increased compared with the cells cultured without IL‐6. Moreover, IL‐6 increased the inward current density to an extent comparable to that of coculture with astrocytes, with no significant differences in theoutward current density, apparent resting potential, or cell capacitance. These results suggest that astrocyte‐derived IL‐6 may facilitate AHPC neuronal differentiation. Our findings have important implications for understanding injury‐induced neurogenesis and developing cell‐based therapeutic strategies using neural progenitors. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Injection of human mesenchymal stem cells improves healing of scarred vocal folds: Analysis using a xenograft model
Authors: Svensson Bengt , Nagubothu R. Srinivasa , Cedervall Jessica , Le Blanc Katarina , Ährlund‐Richter Lars , Tolf Anna , Hertegård Stellan
Published: June 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The aims were to analyze if improved histological and viscoelastic properties seen after injection of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) in scarred vocal folds (VFs) of rabbits are sustainable and if the injected hMSCs survive 3 months in the VFs.

Study Design:

Experimental xenograft model.

Methods:

Eighteen VFs of 11 New Zealand white rabbits were scarred by a bilateral localized resection. After 3 months the animals were sacrificed. Twelve VFs were dissected and stained for histology, lamina propria thickness, and relative collagen type I analyses. The hMSCs survival was analyzed using a human DNA‐specific reference probe, that is, fluorescence in situ hybridization staining. Viscoelasticity, measured as the dynamic viscosity and elastic modulus, was analyzed in a parallel‐plate rheometer for 10 VFs.

Results:

The dynamic viscosity and elastic modulus of hMSC‐treated VFs were similar to that of normal controls and significantly improved compared to untreated controls (P < .05). A reduction in lamina propria thickness and relative collagen type 1 content were also shown for the hMSC‐treated VFs compared to the untreated VFs (P < .05). The histological pictures corresponded well to the viscoelastic results. No hMSCs survived.

Conclusions:

Human mesenchymal stem cells injected into a scarred vocal fold of rabbit enhance healing of the vocal fold with reduced lamina propria thickness and collagen type I content and restore the viscoelastic function. Laryngoscope, 2010
Long‐term effect of unilateral pallidotomy on levodopa‐induced dyskinesia
Authors: Kleiner‐Fisman Galit , Lozano Andres , Moro Elena , Poon Yu‐Yan , Lang Anthony E.
Published: June 2010

Unilateral pallidotomy has been effectively used to treat parkinsonism and reduce levodopa induced dyskinesia (LID). We sought to determine the long‐term effects of pallidotomy on LID in 10 patients who had initial benefit from pallidotomy but went on to require DBS surgery for symptom progression. The Dyskinesia Rating Scale (DRS) was used to rate and quantify LID in a blinded fashion. Though sample size was small, there was a trend towards a reduction in LID lasting up to 12 years suggesting that posteroventral pallidotomy may provide sustained benefit in reducing LID. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Pallidal stimulation in advanced Parkinson's patients with contraindications for subthalamic stimulation
Authors: Rouaud Tiphaine , Dondaine Thibaut , Drapier Sophie , Haegelen Claire , Lallement François , Péron Julie , Raoul Sylvie , Sauleau Paul , Vérin Marc
Published: June 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bilateral pallidal (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS) 6 months after surgery in advanced parkinsonian patients whose dopa‐resistant axial motor signs or cognitive decline constituted contraindications for subthalamic nucleus (STN) DBS. Seventeen patients with a mean age of 59.3 ± 7.1 years (range, 45–70), mean disease duration of 12.5 ± 4.3 years (range, 7–20), and contraindications for STN DBS, underwent bilateral GPi DBS. They were evaluated before surgery and 6 months afterward, in accordance with Core Assessment Program for Intracerebral Transplantation recommendations. There were mean improvements of 41.1% in the UPDRS III motor score in the off‐dopa condition and 20.3% in the activities of daily living score. Motor fluctuations were reduced by 22.9% and dyskinesias by 68.6%. Axial motor signs improved in the off‐dopa condition by 34.2%. Neuropsychological performances remained unchanged at the 6‐month assessment. Bilateral GPi DBS is both safe and effective in advanced parkinsonian patients with untreatable motor fluctuations, for whom STN DBS is contraindicated due to dopa‐resistant axial motor signs or cognitive decline. As such, it should be regarded as a viable option for these patients. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Direct adhesion force measurements between E. coli and human uroepithelial cells in cranberry juice cocktail
Authors: Liu Yatao , Pinzón‐Arango Paola A. , Gallardo‐Moreno Amparo M. , Camesano Terri A.
Published: June 2010

Scope: Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to directly measure the nanoscale adhesion forces between P‐fimbriated Escherichia coli (E. coli) and human uroepithelial cells exposed to cranberry juice, in order to reveal the molecular mechanisms by which cranberry juice cocktail (CJC) affects bacterial adhesion.

Methods and results: Bacterial cell probes were created by attaching P‐fimbriated E. coli HB101pDC1 or non‐fimbriated E. coli HB101 to AFM tips, and the cellular probes were used to directly measure the adhesion forces between E. coli and uroepithelial cells in solutions containing: 0, 2.5, 5, 10, and 27 wt% CJC. Macroscale attachment of E. coli to uroepithelial cells was measured and correlated to nanoscale adhesion force measurements. The adhesion forces between E. coli HB101pDC1 and uroepithelial cells were dose‐dependent, and decreased from 9.32±2.37 nN in the absence of CJC to 0.75±0.19 nN in 27 wt% CJC. Adhesion forces between E. coli HB101 and uroepithelial cells were low in buffer (0.74±0.18 nN), and did not change significantly in CJC (0.78±0.18 nN in 27 wt% CJC; P=0.794).

Conclusion: Our study shows that CJC significantly decreases nanoscale adhesion forces between P‐fimbriated E. coli and uroepithelial cells.
Kaempferol induced apoptosis via endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondria‐dependent pathway in human osteosarcoma U‐2 OS cells
Authors: Huang Wen‐Wen , Chiu Yu‐Jen , Fan Ming‐Jen , Lu Hsu‐Feng , Yeh Hsiu‐Feng , Li Kun‐Hong , Chen Po‐Yuan , Chung Jing‐Gung , Yang Jai‐ Sing
Published: June 2010

Kaempferol is a natural flavonoid. Previous studies have reported that kaempferol has anti‐proliferation activities and induces apoptosis in many cancer cell lines. However, there are no reports on human osteosarcoma. In this study, we investigate the anti‐cancer effects and molecular mechanisms of kaempferol in human osteosarcoma cells. Our results demonstrate that kaempferol significantly reduces cell viabilities of U‐2 OS, HOB and 143B cells, especially U‐2 OS cells in a dose‐dependent manner, but exerts low cytotoxicity on human fetal osteoblast progenitor hFOB cells. Comet assay, DAPI staining and DNA gel electrophoresis confirm the effects of DNA damage and apoptosis in U‐2 OS cells. Flow cytometry detects the increase of cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels and the decrease of mitochondria membrane potential. Western blotting and fluorogenic enzymatic assay show that kaempferol treatment influences the time‐dependent expression of proteins involved in the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway and mitochondrial signaling pathway. In addition, pretreating cells with caspase inhibitors, BAPTA or calpeptin before exposure to kaempferol increases cell viabilities. The anti‐cancer effects of kaempferol in vivo are evaluated in BALB/cnu/nu mice inoculated with U‐2 OS cells, and the results indicate inhibition of tumor growth. In conclusion, kaempferol inhibits human osteosarcoma cells in vivo and in vitro.
High pressure, thermal and pulsed electric‐field‐induced structural changes in selected food allergens
Authors: Johnson Phil E. , Van der Plancken Iesel , Balasa Ana , Husband Fiona A. , Grauwet Tara , Hendrickx Marc , Knorr Dietrich , Mills E. N. Clare , Mackie Alan R.
Published: June 2010

Scope: The effects of high‐pressure/temperature treatment and pulsed electric field treatment on native peanut Ara h 2, 6 and apple Mal d 3 and Mal d 1b prepared by heterologous expression were examined.

Methods and results: Changes in secondary structure and aggregation state of the treated proteins were characterized by circular dichroism spectroscopy and gel‐filtration chromatography. Pulsed electric field treatment did not induce any significant changes in the structure of any of the allergens. High‐pressure/temperature at 20°C did not change the structure of the Ara h 2, 6 or Mal d 3 and resulted in only minor changes in structure of Mal d 1b. Ara h 2, 6 was stable to HPP at 80°C, whereas changes in circular dichroism spectra were observed for both apple allergens. However, these changes were attributable to aggregation and adiabatic heating during HPP. An ELISA assay of temperature treated Mal d 3 showed the antibody reactivity correlated well with the loss of structure.

Conclusion: In conclusion, novel‐processing techniques had little effect on purified allergen structure. Further studies will demonstrate if these stability properties are retained in foodmatrices.
Trans‐10, cis‐12 conjugated linoleic acid inhibits skeletal muscle differentiation and GLUT4 expression independently from NF‐κB activation
Authors: Hommelberg Pascal P. H. , Plat Jogchum , Remels Alexander H. V. , van Essen Anon L. M. , Kelders Marco C. J. M. , Mensink Ronald P. , Schols Annemie M. W. J. , Langen Ramon C. J.
Published: June 2010

Scope: The capacity of skeletal muscle to contribute to glucose homeostasis depends on muscular insulin sensitivity. The expression of glucose transporter (GLUT)‐4 is increased during myoblast differentiation, a process essential in maintenance of adult muscle. Therefore, processes that affect muscle differentiation may influence insulin dependent glucose homeostasis. Conjugated linoleic acids, and in particular trans‐10, cis‐12 CLA (t10, c12‐CLA), are potent inducers of NF‐kB in cultured skeletal myotubes, and NF‐kB activation inhibits muscle differentiation. The aims of this study were to evaluate whether CLAs inhibit myogenic differentiation and lower GLUT4 mRNA expression and to address the involvement of NF‐kB activation in potential effects of CLA on these processes.

Methods and results: Incubation of C2C12 cells with t10, c12‐CLA blocked the formation of myotubes, which was accompanied by reduced expression of the muscle specific genes creatine kinase, myogenin, myosin heavy chain perinatal and myosin heavy chain IIB, as well as decreased GLUT4 mRNA levels. However, genetic blockade of NF‐kB was not sufficient to restore reduced myosin heavy chain protein expression following t10, c12‐CLA treatment. Surprisingly, in contrast to myotubes, t10, c12‐CLA was not able to activate NF‐kB transcriptional activity in myoblasts. Conclusion: In conclusion, t10, c12‐CLA inhibits myogenic differentiation and GLUT4 expression, independently from NF‐kB activation.
T1 corrected B1 mapping using multi‐TR gradient echo sequences
Authors: Voigt Tobias , Nehrke Kay , Doessel Olaf , Katscher Ulrich
Published: June 2010

This work presents a new approach toward a fast, simultaneous amplitude of radiofrequency field (B1) and T1 mapping technique. The new method is based on the “actual flip angle imaging” (AFI) sequence. However, the single pulse repetition time (TR) pair used in the standard AFI sequence is replaced by multiple pulse repetition time sets. The resulting method was called “multiple TR B1/T1 mapping” (MTM). In this study, MTM was investigated and compared to standard AFI in simulations and experiments. Feasibility and reliability of MTM were proven in phantom and in vivo experiments. Error propagation theory was applied to identify optimal sequence parameters and to facilitate a systematic noise comparison to standard AFI. In terms of accuracy and signal‐to‐noise ratio, the presented method outperforms standard AFI B1 mapping over a wide range of T1. Finally, the capability of MTM to determine T1 was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively, yielding good agreement with reference measurements. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combination of multidimensional navigator echoes data from multielement RF coil
Authors: Liu Junmin , Drangova Maria
Published: June 2010

Until now, only one‐dimensional navigator‐echo techniques have been implemented with multielement RF coils. For the multidimensional navigator echoes, which extract six‐degree of freedom motion information from the raw k‐space data, an efficient raw data combination approach is needed. In this work, three combination approaches, including summation of the complex raw data, summation following phase alignment, and summation of the squares of the k‐space magnitude profiles, were evaluated with the spherical navigator echoes (SNAV) technique. In vivo brain imaging experiments were used to quantify accuracy and precision and demonstrated that SNAVs acquired with an eight‐channel head coil can determine the rotation and translation in range up to 10° and 20 mm with subdegree and submillimeter accuracy, respectively. Results from a 3D brain volume realignment experiment showed excellent agreement between baseline images and SNAV‐aligned follow‐up volumes. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Application of hydrophobically modified water‐soluble polyacrylamide conjugated with poly(oxyethylene)‐co‐poly(oxypropylene) surfactant as emulsifier
Authors: Atta Ayman A. , Al‐Shafy H. I. , Mohamed Zakaa M.
Published: June 2010

Hydrophobically modified polyacrylamide (PAAm) was prepared by grafting PAAm with block copolymer of poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(propylene oxide), PEO‐PPO‐PEO, by melt method in the presence of benzoyl peroxide as initiator. The chemical structure of the graft copolymer was determined by FTIR and 1HNMR analyses. The surface tension, critical micelle concentration, and surface activities were determined at different temperatures. Surface parameters such as surface excess concentration (Γmax), the area per molecule at interface (Amin), and the effectiveness of surface tension reduction (ΠCMC) were determined at different temperatures from the adsorption isotherms of the prepared surfactants. The prepared surfactant was tested as emulsifier for water with xylene, cyclohexane, or petroleum crude oil synthetic emulsions. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pyrogallic acid‐PLGA conjugate as new biodegradable material suitable for final sterilization by irradiation
Authors: Cilurzo Francesco , Puoci Francesco , Selmin Francesca , Iemma Francesca , Minghetti Paola
Published: June 2010

This paper reports the feasibility to prepare a biodegradable material stable to γ‐irradiation by grafting of poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) with pyrogallic acid (PLGA‐g‐PA) and ferulic acid (PLGA‐g‐FA) in mild condition. Only the grafting procedure with PA did not modify molecular weight (Mw) of the starting polymer and PLGA‐g‐PA showed antioxidant properties. The polymer degradation in pH 7.4 phosphate buffer saline (PBS) was mainly governed by a random chain scission mechanism according to a first‐order reaction. The irradiation at the dose of 25 kGy caused only a very slight decrease of Mw and the degradation patterns of the non‐irradiated and irradiated material were superimposable. PLGA‐g‐PA resulted a promising material to develop biodegradable drug delivery systems which would be sterilizable in the final container. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maleated amorphous ethylene propylene compatibilized polyethylene nanocomposites: Room temperature nonlinear creep response
Authors: Shaito Ali , Fairbrother Debora , Sterling Jerry , D'Souza Nandika Anne
Published: June 2010

Nonlinear creep of polyethylene and its nanocomposites remains an area of significant interest. Maleated polyethylene is often used as a compatibilizer to ensure enhanced dispersion. This article investigates blown films of linear low‐density polyethylene and its nanocomposites with montmorillonite‐layered silicate (MLS). An amorphous ethylene propylene copolymer grafted maleic anhydride (amEP) was added to enhance the interaction between the PE and the MLS. Tensile results indicate that the addition of amEP and MLS separately and together produces a synergistic effect on the mechanical properties of the neat PE. Nonlinear creep was analyzed by examining creep and recovery of the films with a Burger model and the Kohlrausch‐Williams‐Watts relation. A consistent decrease in unrecoverable plastic strain was obtained in the nanocomposite samples. A decreased retardation time associated with MLS presence was determined. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 50:1620–1632, 2010. © 2010 Society of Plastics Engineers
Oil palm microcomposites: Processing and mechanical behavior
Authors: Joseph Shaji , P.A. Sreekumar , Kenny Jose M. , Puglia Debora , Thomas Sabu , Joseph Kuruvilla
Published: June 2010

The present work focuses on the effect of concentration and modifications of oil palm microfibrils in natural rubber. Increase in the concentration of microfibrils resulted in the reduction of tensile and tear strengths while an increase in modulus, hardness, and abrasion resistance of composites. The extent of microfibril orientation in the composite was determined from green strength measurements. Microcomposites were also prepared by using fibrils treated with benzoyl chloride, silane coupling agent, and hydrated silica‐resorcinol‐hexamethylenetetramine bonding agent. The treated and untreated microfibrils were characterized by FTIR. Scanning electron micrograph studies were carried out to analyze the microfibril pull out and fiber/matrix adhesion of composites. The extent of fiber alignment and interfacial adhesion were analyzed from swelling measurements. Finally, experimental results of mechanical properties were compared with the theoretical predictions. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 50:1853–1863, 2010. © 2010 Society of Plastics Engineers
Homoaromaticity in aza‐ and phosphasemibullvalenes. A computational study
Authors: Greve Daniel R.
Published: June 2010

The enthalpies of activation ΔH‡ for the Cope rearrangement in several aza‐ and phosphasemibullvalenes have been investigated by MP4/cc‐pVDZ//MP2/cc‐pVDZ and CCSD(T)/cc‐pVDZ//MP2/cc‐pVDZ calculations. One tetraazasemibullvalene and several phosphasemibullvalenes were found to have vanishing ΔH‡ values, which together with calculated large negative Nucleus Independent Chemical Shift (NICS) values and geometrical data show that these molecules have delocalized and bishomoaromatic minima. Furthermore, three azasemibullvalenes were found to have small ΔH‡ values (≤2 kcal/mol) combined with large negative NICS, suggesting that they could also have bishomoaromatic minima. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selective enhanced electrochemical response of DNA bases on carbon nanotube–gold nanocomposites modified gold electrode
Authors: Zhang Renyun , Wang Xuemei
Published: June 2010

In this study, multi‐walled carbon nanotube–gold (MWCNT–Au) nanocomposites have been synthesized by using one‐step method, where gold nanoparticles were deposited on the sidewall of multiwalled carbon nanotubes directly and orderly. By combination of these MWCNT–Au nanocomposites with electrochemical biosensing, our study indicates that the modification of gold electrode with these nanocomposites could remarkably enhance the electrochemical response of DNA bases and extends the application of relevant electrodes. It is noted that the selective enhancement effect of DNA bases was related to the special interaction of different bases with the nanointerface and the large effective surface area of this modified electrode. Especially, the pyrimidine bases' signal has been enhanced for several times at the MWCNT–Au nanocomposites modified electrodes than that of the carbon nanotube modified electrodes, suggesting that the MWCNT–Au nanocomposite modified gold electrodes could selectively and sensitively recognize the pyrimidine from other bases in DNA related determinations.

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Electrochemical detection of DNA bases based on MWCNT–Au nanocomposites modified gold electrode.
Proposals of statistical consideration to evaluation of results for a specific region in multi‐regional trials – Asian perspective
Authors: Tsou Hsiao‐Hui , Chow Shein‐Chung , Lan K. K. Gordon , Liu Jen‐pei , Wang Mey , Chern Herng‐Der , Ho Low‐Tone , Hsiung Chao A. , Hsiao Chin‐Fu
Published: June 2010

In recent years, global collaboration has become a conventional strategy for new drug development. To accelerate the development process and to shorten approval time, the design of multi‐regional trials incorporates subjects from many countries around the world under the same protocol. After showing the overall efficacy of a drug in all global regions, one can also simultaneously evaluate the possibility of applying the overall trial results to all regions and subsequently support drug registration in each of them. Recently, the trend for simultaneous clinical development in Asian countries being undertaken simultaneously with clinical trials conducted in Europe and the United States has been rapidly rising. In this paper, proposals of statistical consideration to multi‐regional trials are provided. More specifically, three aspects are addressed: the definition of the ‘Asian region,’ the consistency criterion between the ‘Asian region’ and the overall regions, and the sample size determination for the multi‐regional trial. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.