bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unsatisfactory gene transfer into bone-resorbing osteoclasts with liposomal transfection systems
Authors: Laitala-Leinonen Tiina
Published: August 2005

Background

Bone-resorbing osteoclasts are multinucleated cells that are formed via fusion of their hematopoietic stem cells. Many of the details of osteoclast formation, activation and motility remain unsolved. Therefore, there is an interest among bone biologists to transfect the terminally differentiated osteoclasts and follow their responses to the transgenes in vitro. Severe difficulties in transfecting the large, adherent osteoclasts have been encountered, however, making the use of modern cell biology tools in osteoclast research challenging. Transfection of mature osteoclasts by non-viral gene transfer systems has not been reported.

Results

We have systematically screened the usefulness of several commercial DNA transfection systems in human osteoclasts and their mononuclear precursor cell cultures, and compared transfection efficacy to adenoviral DNA transfection. None of the liposome-based or endosome disruption-inducing systems could induce EGFP-actin expression in terminally differentiated osteoclasts. Instead, a massive cell death by apoptosis was found with all concentrations and liposome/DNA-ratios tested. Best transfection efficiencies were obtained by adenoviral gene delivery. Marginal DNA transfection was obtained by just adding the DNA to the cell culture medium. When bone marrow-derived CD34-positive precursor cells were transfected, some GFP-expression was found at the latest 24 h after transfection. Large numbers of apoptotic cells were found and those cells that remained alive, failed to form osteoclasts when cultured in the presence of RANKL and M-CSF, key regulators of osteoclast formation. In comparison, adenoviral gene delivery resulted in the transfection of CD34-positive cells that remained GFP-positive for up to 5 days and allowed osteoclast formation.

Conclusion

Osteoclasts and their precursors are sensitive to liposomal transfection systems, which induce osteoclast apoptosis. Gene transfer to mononuclear osteoclast precursors or differentiated osteoclasts was not possible with any of the commercial transfection systems tested. Osteoclasts are non-dividing, adherent cells that are difficult to grow as confluent cultures, which may explain problems with transfection reagents. Large numbers of αvβ3 integrin on the osteoclast surface allows adenovirus endocytosis and infection proceeds in dividing and non-dividing cells efficiently. Viral gene delivery is therefore currently the method of choice for osteoclast transfection.
Health related quality of life in sickle cell patients: The PiSCES project
Authors: McClish Donna K , Penberthy Lynne T , Bovbjerg Viktor E , Roberts John D , Aisiku Imoigele P , Levenson James L , Roseff Susan D , Smith Wally R
Published: August 2005

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic disease associated with high degrees of morbidity and increased mortality. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among adults with sickle cell disease has not been widely reported.

Methods

We administered the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short-Form to 308 patients in the Pain in Sickle Cell Epidemiology Study (PiSCES) to assess HRQOL. Scales included physical function, physical and emotional role function, bodily pain, vitality, social function, mental health, and general health. We compared scores with national norms using t-tests, and with three chronic disease cohorts: asthma, cystic fibrosis and hemodialysis patients using analysis of variance and Dunnett's test for comparison with a control. We also assessed whether SCD specific variables (genotype, pain, crisis and utilization) were independently predictive of SF-36 subscales, controlling for socio-demographic variables using regression.

Results

Patients with SCD scored significantly worse than national norms on all subscales except mental health. Patients with SCD had lower HRQOL than cystic fibrosis patients except for mental health. Scores were similar for physical function, role function and mental health as compared to asthma patients, but worse for bodily pain, vitality, social function and general health subscales. Compared to dialysis patients, sickle cell disease patients scored similarly on physical role and emotional role function, social functioning and mental health, worse on bodily pain, general health and vitality and better on physical functioning. Surprisingly, genotype did not influence HRQOL except for vitality. However, scores significantly decreased as pain levels increased.

Conclusion

SCD patients experience health related quality of life worse than the general population, and in general, their scores were most similar to patients undergoing hemodialysis. Practitioners should regard their HRQOL as severely compromised. Interventions in SCD should consider improvements in health related quality of life as important outcomes.
Exogenous estradiol enhances apoptosis in regressing post-partum rat corpora lutea possibly mediated by prolactin
Authors: Goyeneche Alicia A , Telleria Carlos M
Published: August 2005

Background

In pregnant rats, structural luteal regression takes place after parturition and is associated with cell death by apoptosis. We have recently shown that the hormonal environment is responsible for the fate of the corpora lutea (CL). Changing the levels of circulating hormones in post-partum rats, either by injecting androgen, progesterone, or by allowing dams to suckle, was coupled with a delay in the onset of apoptosis in the CL. The objectives of the present investigation were: i) to examine the effect of exogenous estradiol on apoptosis of the rat CL during post-partum luteal regression; and ii) to evaluate the post-partum luteal expression of the estrogen receptor (ER) genes.

Methods

In a first experiment, rats after parturition were separated from their pups and injected daily with vehicle or estradiol benzoate for 4 days. On day 4 post-partum, animals were sacrificed, blood samples were taken to determine serum concentrations of hormones, and the ovaries were isolated to study apoptosis in situ. In a second experiment, non-lactating rats after parturition received vehicle, estradiol benzoate or estradiol benzoate plus bromoergocryptine for 4 days, and their CL were isolated and used to study apoptosis ex vivo. In a third experiment, we obtained CL from rats on day 15 of pregnancy and from non-lactating rats on day 4 post-partum, and studied the expression of the messenger RNAs (mRNAs) encoding the ERalpha and ERbeta genes.

Results

Exogenous administration of estradiol benzoate induced an increase in the number of apoptotic cells within the CL on day 4 post-partum when compared with animals receiving vehicle alone. Animals treated with the estrogen had higher serum prolactin and progesterone concentrations, with no changes in serum androstenedione. Administration of bromoergocryptine blocked the increase in serum prolactin and progesterone concentrations, and DNA fragmentation induced by the estrogen treatment. ERalpha and ERbeta mRNAs were expressed in CL of day 4 post-partum animals at levels similar to those found in CL of day 15 pregnant animals.

Conclusion

We have established that estradiol accelerates apoptosis in the CL during post-partum luteal regression through a mechanism that possibly involves the secretion of pituitary prolactin. We have also shown that the post-partum rat CL express ERalpha and ERbeta mRNAs suggesting that they can be targeted by estrogen.
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and ovarian function – implications for regulating steroidogenesis, differentiation, and tissue remodeling
Authors: Komar Carolyn M
Published: August 2005

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a family of transcription factors involved in varied and diverse processes such as steroidogenesis, angiogenesis, tissue remodeling, cell cycle, apoptosis, and lipid metabolism. These processes are critical for normal ovarian function, and all three PPAR family members – alpha, delta, and gamma, are expressed in the ovary. Most notably, the expression of PPARgamma is limited primarily to granulosa cells in developing follicles, and is regulated by luteinizing hormone (LH). Although much has been learned about the PPARs since their initial discovery, very little is known regarding their function in ovarian tissue. This review highlights what is known about the roles of PPARs in ovarian cells, and discusses potential mechanisms by which PPARs could influence ovarian function. Because PPARs are activated by drugs currently in clinical use (fibrates and thiazolidinediones), it is important to understand their role in the ovary, and how manipulation of their activity may impact ovarian physiology as well as ovarian pathology.
The unsuitability of html-based colour charts for estimating animal colours – a comment on Berggren and Merilä (2004)
Authors: Stevens Martin , Cuthill Innes C
Published: August 2005

Background

A variety of techniques are used to study the colours of animal signals, including the use of visual matching to colour charts. This paper aims to highlight why they are generally an unsatisfactory tool for the measurement and classification of animal colours and why colour codes based on HTML (really RGB) standards, as advocated in a recent paper, are particularly inappropriate. There are many theoretical arguments against the use of colour charts, not least that human colour vision differs markedly from that of most other animals. However, the focus of this paper is the concern that, even when applied to humans, there is no simple 1:1 mapping from an RGB colour space to the perceived colours in a chart (the results are both printer- and illumination-dependent). We support our criticisms with data from colour matching experiments with humans, involving self-made, printed colour charts.

Results

Colour matching experiments with printed charts involving 11 subjects showed that the choices made by individuals were significantly different between charts that had exactly the same RGB values, but were produced from different printers. Furthermore, individual matches tended to vary under different lighting conditions. Spectrophotometry of the colour charts showed that the reflectance spectra of the charts varied greatly between printers and that equal steps in RGB space were often far from equal in terms of reflectance on the printed charts.

Conclusion

In addition to outlining theoretical criticisms of the use of colour charts, our empirical results show that: individuals vary in their perception of colours, that different printers produce strikingly different results when reproducing what should be the same chart, and that the characteristics of the light irradiating the surface do affect colour perception. Therefore, we urge great caution in the use of colour charts to study animal colour signals. They should be used only as a last resort and in full knowledge of their limitations, with specially produced charts made to high industry standards.
Preliminary molecular genetic analysis of the Receptor Interacting Protein 140 (RIP140) in women affected by endometriosis
Authors: Caballero Virginia , Ruiz Rocío , Sainz José Antonio , Cruz Marina , López-Nevot Miguel Angel , Galán José Jorge , Real Luis Miguel , de Castro Francisco , López-Villaverde Vicente , Ruiz Agustín
Published: August 2005

Background

Endometriosis is a complex disease affecting 10–15% of women at reproductive age. Very few genes are known to be altered in this pathology. RIP140 protein is an important cofactor of oestrogen receptor and many other nuclear receptors. Targeting disruption experiments of nrip1 gene in mice have demonstrated that nuclear receptor interacting protein 1 gene (nrip1), the gene encoding for rip140 protein, is essential for female fertility. Specifically, mice null for nrip1 gene are viable, but females are infertile because of complete failure of mature follicles to release oocytes at ovulation stage. The ovarian phenotype observed in mice devoid of rip140 closely resembles the luteinized unruptured follicle (LUF) syndrome that is observed in a high proportion of women affected of endometriosis or idiopathic infertility. Here we present a preliminary work that analyses the role of NRIP1 gene in humans.

Methods

We have sequenced the complete coding region of NRIP1 gene in 20 unrelated patients affected by endometriosis. We have performed genetic association studies by using the DNA variants identified during the sequencing process.

Results

We identified six DNA variants within the coding sequence of NRIP1 gene, and five of them generated amino acid changes in the protein. We observed that three of twenty sequenced patients have specific combinations of amino-acid variants within the RIP140 protein that are poorly represented in the control population (p = 0.006). Moreover, we found that Arg448Gly, a common polymorphism located within NRIP1 gene, is associated with endometriosis in a case-control study (59 cases and 141 controls, pallele positivity test = 0.027).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that NRIP1 gene variants, separately or in combinations, might act as predisposing factors for human endometriosis.
Why study the use of animal products in traditional medicines?
Authors: Alves Rômulo RN , Rosa Ierecê L
Published: August 2005

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that as many as 80% of the world's more than six billion people rely primarily on animal and plant-based medicines. The healing of human ailments by using therapeutics based on medicines obtained from animals or ultimately derived from them is known as zootherapy. The phenomenon of zootherapy is marked both by a broad geographical distribution and very deep historical origins. Despite their importance, studies on the therapeutic use of animals and animal parts have been neglected, when compared to plants. This paper discusses some related aspects of the use of animals or parts thereof as medicines, and their implications for ecology, culture (the traditional knowledge), economy, and public health.
Rheumatoid arthritis seropositive for the rheumatoid factor is linked to the protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor 22-620W allele
Authors: Dieudé Philippe , Garnier Sophie , Michou Laëtitia , Petit-Teixeira Elisabeth , Glikmans Elodie , Pierlot Céline , Lasbleiz Sandra , Bardin Thomas , Prum Bernard , Cornélis François ,   the European Consortium on Rheumatoid Arthritis Families
Published: August 2005

The protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor type 22 (PTPN22) gene encodes for lymphoid tyrosine phosphatase LYP, involved in the negative regulation of early T-cell activation. An association has recently been reported between the PTPN22-620W functional allele and rheumatoid factor-positive (RF+) rheumatoid arthritis (RA), among other autoimmune diseases. Expected linkage proof for consistency cannot be definitely produced by an affected sib-pair (ASP) analysis. Our aim was therefore to search for linkage evidence with the transmission disequilibrium test.

DNA from the French Caucasian population was available for two samples of 100 families with one RA patient and both parents, and for 88 RA index cases from RA ASP families. Genotyping was carried out by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The analysis was performed using the transmission disequilibrium test, genotype relative risk and ASP-based analysis.

The transmission disequilibrium test of the PTPN22-620W allele revealed linkage and association for RF+ RA (61% of transmission, P = 0.037). The genotype relative risk showed the risk allele in 34% of RF+ RA patients and in 24% of controls derived from nontransmitted parental chromosomes (P = 0.047, odds ratio = 1.69, 95% confidence interval = 1.03–2.78). The ASP investigation showed no enriched risk allele in RA multiplex families, resulting in a lack of power of ASP analysis, explaining the published negative results.

This study is the first to show linkage of PTPN22 to RF+ RA, consistent with PTPN22 as a new RA gene.
Relationship between the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 and MDR1/P-glycoprotein in invasive breast cancers and their prognostic significance
Authors: Surowiak Pawel , Materna Verena , Matkowski Rafal , Szczuraszek Katarzyna , Kornafel Jan , Wojnar Andrzej , Pudelko Marek , Dietel Manfred , Denkert Carsten , Zabel Maciej , Lage Hermann
Published: August 2005

Introduction

Recent reports suggest that expression of the cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) enzyme may up-regulate expression of MDR1/P-glycoprotein (MDR1/P-gp), an exponent of resistance to cytostatic drugs. The present study aimed at examining the relationship between the expression of COX-2 and of MDR1/P-gp in a group of breast cancer cases.

Methods

Immunohistochemical reactions were performed using monoclonal antibodies against COX-2 and MDR1/P-gp on samples originating from 104 cases of primary invasive breast cancer.

Results

COX-2-positive cases were shown to demonstrate higher expression of MDR1/P-gp (P < 0.0001). The studies also demonstrate that COX-2 expression was typical for cases of a higher grade (P = 0.01), a shorter overall survival time (P < 0.0001) and a shorter progression-free time (P < 0.0001). In the case of MDR1/P-gp, its higher expression characterised cases of a higher grade (P < 0001), with lymph node involvement (P < 0001), and shorter overall survival (P < 0.0001) and progression-free time (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Our studies confirmed the unfavourable prognostic significance of COX-2 and MDR1/P-gp. We also document a relationship between COX-2 and MDR1/P-gp, which suggests that COX-2 inhibitors should be investigated in trials as a treatment supplementary to chemotherapy of breast cancers.
Relation between respiratory variations in pulse oximetry plethysmographic waveform amplitude and arterial pulse pressure in ventilated patients
Authors: Cannesson Maxime , Besnard Cyril , Durand Pierre G , Bohé Julien , Jacques Didier
Published: August 2005

Introduction

Respiratory variation in arterial pulse pressure is a reliable predictor of fluid responsiveness in mechanically ventilated patients with circulatory failure. The main limitation of this method is that it requires an invasive arterial catheter. Both arterial and pulse oximetry plethysmographic waveforms depend on stroke volume. We conducted a prospective study to evaluate the relationship between respiratory variation in arterial pulse pressure and respiratory variation in pulse oximetry plethysmographic (POP) waveform amplitude.

Method

This prospective clinical investigation was conducted in 22 mechanically ventilated patients. Respiratory variation in arterial pulse pressure and respiratory variation in POP waveform amplitude were recorded simultaneously in a beat-to-beat evaluation, and were compared using a Spearman correlation test and a Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

There was a strong correlation (r2 = 0.83; P < 0.001) and a good agreement (bias = 0.8 ± 3.5%) between respiratory variation in arterial pulse pressure and respiratory variation in POP waveform amplitude. A respiratory variation in POP waveform amplitude value above 15% allowed discrimination between patients with respiratory variation in arterial pulse pressure above 13% and those with variation of 13% or less (positive predictive value 100%).

Conclusion

Respiratory variation in arterial pulse pressure above 13% can be accurately predicted by a respiratory variation in POP waveform amplitude above 15%. This index has potential applications in patients who are not instrumented with an intra-arterial catheter.
Characterization of the yeast ionome: a genome-wide analysis of nutrient mineral and trace element homeostasis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Eide David J , Clark Suzanne , Nair T Murlidharan , Gehl Mathias , Gribskov Michael , Guerinot Mary Lou , Harper Jeffrey F
Published: August 2005

Background

Nutrient minerals are essential yet potentially toxic, and homeostatic mechanisms are required to regulate their intracellular levels. We describe here a genome-wide screen for genes involved in the homeostasis of minerals in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), we assayed 4,385 mutant strains for the accumulation of 13 elements (calcium, cobalt, copper, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, nickel, phosphorus, selenium, sodium, sulfur, and zinc). We refer to the resulting accumulation profile as the yeast 'ionome'.

Results

We identified 212 strains that showed altered ionome profiles when grown on a rich growth medium. Surprisingly few of these mutants (four strains) were affected for only one element. Rather, levels of multiple elements were altered in most mutants. It was also remarkable that only six genes previously shown to be involved in the uptake and utilization of minerals were identified here, indicating that homeostasis is robust under these replete conditions. Many mutants identified affected either mitochondrial or vacuolar function and these groups showed similar effects on the accumulation of many different elements. In addition, intriguing positive and negative correlations among different elements were observed. Finally, ionome profile data allowed us to correctly predict a function for a previously uncharacterized gene, YDR065W. We show that this gene is required for vacuolar acidification.

Conclusion

Our results indicate the power of ionomics to identify new aspects of mineral homeostasis and how these data can be used to develop hypotheses regarding the functions of previously uncharacterized genes.
E-Predict: a computational strategy for species identification based on observed DNA microarray hybridization patterns
Authors: Urisman Anatoly , Fischer Kael F , Chiu Charles Y , Kistler Amy L , Beck Shoshannah , Wang David , DeRisi Joseph L
Published: August 2005

DNA microarrays may be used to identify microbial species present in environmental and clinical samples. However, automated tools for reliable species identification based on observed microarray hybridization patterns are lacking. We present an algorithm, E-Predict, for microarray-based species identification. E-Predict compares observed hybridization patterns with theoretical energy profiles representing different species. We demonstrate the application of the algorithm to viral detection in a set of clinical samples and discuss its relevance to other metagenomic applications.
Psychiatric Disorders and Mental Health Service Use Among Caregivers of Advanced Cancer Patients
Authors: Vanderwerker Lauren C. , Laff Rachel E. , Kadan-Lottick Nina S. , McColl Suzanne , Prigerson Holly G.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Despite research demonstrating the psychological burden of caregiving for advanced cancer patients, limited information exists on the prevalence of psychiatric disorders and mental health service use among these informal caregivers.

Methods

Two hundred informal caregivers of advanced cancer patients were interviewed and administered the Structured Clinical Interview of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition and an assessment of mental health service use.

Results

Thirteen percent of caregivers met criteria for a psychiatric disorder; 25% accessed treatment for mental health concerns since the patient's cancer diagnosis. The frequencies of current psychiatric disorders were as follows: panic disorder, 8.0% (95% CI, 4.6% to 12.7%), major depressive disorder, 4.5% (95% CI, 2.1% to 8.4%), post-traumatic stress disorder, 4.0% (95% CI, 1.7% to 7.7%), and generalized anxiety disorder, 3.5% (95% CI, 1.4% to 7.1%). Among caregivers with a current psychiatric disorder, 81% discussed mental health concerns with a health professional before the patient's cancer diagnosis compared with 46% after the diagnosis (McNemar test = 5.40; P = .02). Only 46% of caregivers with a current psychiatric disorder accessed mental health services. Caregivers who discussed mental health concerns with a clinician before the patient's cancer diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] = 3.51; 95% CI, 1.42 to 8.71) and after the diagnosis (OR = 21.23; 95% CI, 9.02 to 49.94) were more likely than caregivers not having these discussions to receive mental health services.

Conclusion

Many caregivers of advanced cancer patients either meet criteria or are being treated for psychiatric problems. Discussing mental health issues positively influences the receipt of mental health services and should be actively pursued in this vulnerable population.
Quality-of-Life Effects of Prophylactic Salpingo-Oophorectomy Versus Gynecologic Screening Among Women at Increased Risk of Hereditary Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Madalinska Joanna B. , Hollenstein Judith , Bleiker Eveline , van Beurden Marc , Valdimarsdottir Heiddis B. , Massuger Leon F. , Gaarenstroom Katja N. , Mourits Marian J.E. , Verheijen René H.M. , van Dorst Eleonora B.L. , van der Putten Hans , van der Velden Ko , Boonstra Henk , Aaronson Neil K.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Recommendations for women at high risk of ovarian cancer include periodic gynecologic screening (GS) and prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (PBSO). The aim of the current study was to determine the quality-of-life (QOL) effects of PBSO versus GS.

Patients and Methods

Questionnaire data were obtained from 846 high-risk women who had participated in this nationwide, cross-sectional, observational study. Forty-four percent of the women had undergone PBSO, and 56% had opted for GS. Topics addressed by the questionnaire included generic QOL, cancer-specific distress, endocrine symptoms, and sexual functioning.

Results

No statistically significant between-group differences were observed in generic QOL (Short Form-36), with women in both the PBSO and GS groups scoring similarly to the general population. Compared with GS, PBSO was associated with fewer breast and ovarian cancer worries (P < .001) and more favorable cancer risk perception (P < .05). However, the PBSO group reported significantly more endocrine symptoms (P < .001) and worse sexual functioning (P < .05) than the GS group. Eighty-six percent of women would choose PBSO again, and 63% would recommend it to a friend with familial risk of ovarian cancer.

Conclusion

PBSO had no measurable adverse impact on generic QOL of high-risk women. The favorable effects of PBSO in terms of reduced cancer worries and low perceived cancer risk need to be weighed against the increase in endocrine and sexual symptoms. Balanced information will help clinicians and high-risk women to make informed decisions about the optimal preventive health strategy.
Treatment Results in Localized Primary Gastric Lymphoma: Data of Patients Registered Within the German Multicenter Study (GIT NHL 02/96)
Authors: Koch Peter , Probst Andreas , Berdel Wolfgang E. , Willich Normann A. , Reinartz Gabriele , Brockmann Jens , Liersch Rüdiger , del Valle Francisco , Clasen Hermann , Hirt Carsten , Breitsprecher Regine , Schmits Rudolf , Freund Mathias , Fietkau Rainer , Ketterer Peter , Freitag Eva-Maria , Hinkelbein Margit , Heinecke Achim , Parwaresch Reza , Tiemann Markus
Published: August 2005

Purpose

In the prospective study 02/96 on primary GI lymphoma, we have collected data on histology, clinical features, and treatment results. In particular, in stages I and II localized primary gastric lymphoma (PGL), our objectives were to reduce treatment intensity and to confirm our hypothesis from study 01/92, which maintained that an organ-preserving approach is not inferior to primary surgery.

Patients and Methods

Patients receiving radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy were stratified for histologic grade, stage, and whether surgery had been carried out or not (as decided by each participating center). Patients with aggressive PGL received six cycles of CHOP-14 (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) followed by involved-field radiotherapy (40 Gy). Patients with indolent PGL (including patients experiencing treatment failure with antibiotic therapy for Helicobacter pylori) were treated with extended-field radiotherapy. The volume depended on stage. The irradiation dose was 30 Gy, followed by a boost of 10 Gy (the latter omitted after complete resection) to the tumor region.

Results

Seven hundred forty-seven patients were accrued. Of these patients, 393 with localized PGL were treated with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy only or additional surgery between December 1996 and December 2003. The survival rate at 42 months for patients treated with surgery was 86% compared with 91.0% for patients without surgery.

Conclusion

In this nonrandomized study (02/96), we reproduced the previous results of study 01/92 showing no disadvantage for an organ-preserving treatment. Therefore, primary stomach resection should be questioned.
Large Cleaved and Immunoblastic Lymphoma May Represent Two Distinct Clinicopathologic Entities Within the Group of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphomas
Authors: De Paepe Pascale , Achten Ruth , Verhoef Gregor , Wlodarska Iwona , Stul Michel , Vanhentenrijk Vera , Praet Marleen , De Wolf-Peeters Chris
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The reliability of immunohistochemistry for subdividing diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL) into germinal center B-cell-like (GCB) and non-GCB prognostic subgroups is debated. In this study we evaluated the prognostic significance of such subgrouping on a series of 153 DLBCL patients. Furthermore, we investigated whether both subgroups could comprise clinicopathologic entities recognized by their morphology and characterized by a distinct phenotype, specific genetic abnormalities, and clinical characteristics.

Patients and Methods

All samples from patients were reviewed and morphologically subdivided into large cleaved, immunoblastic, and not otherwise specified DLBCL. GCB and non-GCB immunohistochemical profiles were established. The presence of chromosomal translocations involving BCL2, BCL6, and MYC and/or rearrangements of these genes was investigated.

Results

Subdividing DLBCL with either a GCB or non-GCB immunophenotypic profile was not of prognostic significance. Nevertheless, CD10 expression was a predictor of favorable outcome, whereas high bcl-2 expression and BCL6 rearrangement were adverse predictors of disease-free survival. Interestingly, large cleaved DLBCL was clearly associated with a GCB immunophenotypic profile, CD10 expression, BCL2 rearrangement, age younger than 60 years, and low to low/intermediate International Prognostic Index risk, but was not of prognostic significance. In contrast, immunoblastic morphology was associated with a non-GCB profile and was a significant predictor of unfavorable DFS.

Conclusion

Subdividing DLBCL into subgroups based on their immunohistochemical profile was not of prognostic significance. Nevertheless, it allowed the additional characterization of two lymphoma subgroups previously recognized in the Working Formulation. Both correspond to two distinct clinicopathologic entities within the DLBCL.
Characteristics of Water Adsorbed on TiO2 Photocatalytic Surfaces as Studied by 1H NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Y. Nosaka Atsuko , Nosaka Yoshio
Published: August 2005

This account is a review of the research on the characteristics of adsorbed water molecules and the photocatalytic reaction sites of incorporated organic molecules on various TiO2 photocatalysts in powder and film forms by means of 1H NMR spectroscopy. The adsorbed water can be categorized into four distinctively different water species: i) rigid water species with restricted mobility near the solid surface; ii) less mobile water molecules in the intermediate water layer; iii) relatively mobile water molecules in the outer water layer; iv) very loosely adsorbed water molecules which exchange slowly with gaseous water molecules in air. The temperature dependence of the NMR signal of a small quantity of ethanol molecules incorporated in TiO2 suggests that the actual photocatalytic reaction site can be these adsorbed water regions. The surface conversion of hydrophilic properties of TiO2 films induced by photoirradiation is well reflected in the NMR signal change. The enhancement of water molecularly adsorbed on TiO2 films is evidently detected on UV irradiation; this phenomenon has been difficult to elucidate so far with alternative spectroscopic techniques.
External Quantum Efficiency and Electroluminescence Spectra of BIODE (Biomolecular Light-Emitting Diode) Fabricated from Horse-Heart Cytochrome c
Authors: Ikeda Shingo , Tajima Hiroyuki , Matsuda Masaki , Ando Yoriko , Akiyama Hidefumi
Published: August 2005

We fabricated organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) from horse-heart cytochrome c, and measured the electroluminescence (EL) spectra, current–voltage and EL intensity–voltage characteristics. The external quantum efficiency evaluated from those characteristics was 6–8 × 10−8 at an applied voltage of 13 V. The EL spectrum shows the Soret band around 400 nm, the Q band around 500 nm, and the 690 nm band. The three bands became obscure for a sample prepared in an acidic solution (pH = 1.68) and in a basic solution (pH = 10.01). Based on the energy diagram of the /ITO/cytochrome c/Al/ junction, we considered the difference in the EL spectrum from the photoluminescence or absorption spectrum.
Dioxygen Binding to a Cobalt(II) Porphycene Complex and Its Auto-Oxidized Cobalt(III) Complex
Authors: Shimakoshi Hisashi , Aritome Isao , Hirota Shun , Hisaeda Yoshio
Published: August 2005

The reaction between a cobalt porphycene complex, [CoII(TPrPc)] (TPrPc is a dianion of 2,7,12,17-tetrapropylporphycene), and dioxygen was investigated by means of UV–vis, ESR, and resonance Raman (RR) spectroscopies. These spectra indicate the formation of [CoIII–O2−•]. In the presence of pyridine as an axial ligand, the formation of a six-coordinated superoxide species was confirmed by its characteristic ESR spectrum. The six-coordinated dioxygen adduct exhibits an RR band at 1144 cm−1, which is characteristic of O–O stretching of superoxide. ν(Co–O2) stretching is also observed at 540 cm−1. The ν(O–O) and ν(Co–O2) wavenumbers in the complex were assigned by means of 18O2 substitution. ν(Co–O2) of the O2 adduct shows a higher frequency relative to those of cobalt porphyrin complexes. On standing for one day at room temperature, the compound was auto-oxidized to a CoIII complex, which was structurally determined by X-ray analysis. The complex crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/n, a = 9.6266(4) Å, b = 12.6343(5) Å, c = 15.6566(6) Å, β = 99.1200(10)°, V = 1880.17(13) Å3, and Z = 2. The CoIII ion lies on the plane of the porphycenato core, and coordinates four porphycenato nitrogen atoms and two pyridine nitrogen atoms. The complex cation, [CoIII(TPrPc)(Py)2]+, exhibits a slightly distorted octahedral coordination geometry. The average Co–N (porphycenato pyrrole) distance and the Co–N (pyridine) distance are 1.929 and 1.952 Å, respectively.
Anion Effects on the Formation of Cross-Linked Argentophilic Interaction. Synthesis and Structural Properties of AgX Bearing Bis(3-pyridyl)dimethylsilane (X− = CF3SO3−, PF6−, and NO3−)
Authors: Park Byung Il , Lee Jung Woon , Lee Young-A , Hong Jongki , Jung Ok-Sang
Published: August 2005

Anion effects on the formation of a cross-linked Ag–Ag interaction in the molecular construction of a series of AgX complexes with bis(3-pyridyl)dimethylsilane (L) (X− = CF3SO3−, PF6−, and NO3−) have been carried out. The slow diffusion of an organic solution of L into an aqueous solution of AgX afforded [Ag(L)]X or [Ag(X)(L)]. Each L connected two Ag(I) ions (Ag–N = 2.110(5)–2.161(4) Å) to form a wave strand. For CF3SO3− and PF6− anions, each single strand cross-linked the adjacent single strands via an argentophilic interaction (Ag–Ag = 3.0551(7) Å for CF3SO3−, 3.279(1) Å for PF6−) to produce unique 2D sheets. In contrast, for the NO3− anion, the anion acts as a ligand (Ag–O3N = 2.61–2.79 Å) instead of the argentophilic interaction (Ag···Ag = 3.351(1) Å). That is, a small coordinating anion is an obstacle to form the argentophilic interaction, whereas a big noncoordinating anion favors the argentophilic interaction in the present molecular construction. For all complexes, the geometry around the Ag(I) ion is a typical T-shaped arrangement. The thermal stability can be explained in terms of the structural properties, including the argentophilic interaction.
Selective and Monofunctional Guanosine 5′-Monophosphate Binding by Chloro[3-(2,3-diaminopropionylamino)propionic acid](dimethyl sulfoxide)platinum(II) Complex
Authors: Takashima Hiroshi , Hirai Chiharu , Tsukahara Keiichi
Published: August 2005

A new complex of chloro[3-(2,3-diaminopropionylamino)propionic acid](dimethyl sulfoxide)platinum(II) ([PtCl(dmso)(Hdapap)]CF3CO2·2H2O) was synthesized and characterized. Among a series of nucleic acids, the selective and 1:1 binding between [PtCl(dapap)(dmso)] and a guanosine 5′-monophosphate ion (Hgmp−) in an aqueous solution at pH 4.0 (20 mmol dm−3, each) was achieved by conducting ESI-MS and NMR experiments. This reaction included the initial chloride ion displacement by H2O, followed by metal coordination to the N7-position of the guanine base. The latter step was not affected in the case of guanosine-3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate ion (cgmp−), indicating that the phosphate–Pt binding can be ruled out in this system. In order to monitor the binding reaction of [PtCl(dapap)(dmso)] with several nucleic acids, time-course 1H and 31P NMR experiments were performed at 25 °C. Changes in the NMR chemical shifts of H8, H1′, and phosphate signals in Hgmp− upon the addition of [PtCl(dapap)(dmso)] revealed that two products finally remained. Since the synthetic dapap ligand could regulate the reactivity of a ligand coordinated to the Pt-center in [PtCl(dapap)(dmso)], this may arise from the presence of cis- and trans-isomers of [PtCl(dapap)(dmso)] in solution.
Calix[4]arene Derivatives: Efficient Ionophores for Silver(I) Ion Sensors
Authors: Mahajan Rakesh Kumar , Kaur Inderpreet , Kaur Ravneet , Bhalla Vandana , Kumar Manoj
Published: August 2005

Calix[4]arene derivatives with four imine units at the upper rim and different spacers between two calixarenes were employed as highly promising lipophilic neutral carriers to prepare a series of silver-selective electrodes. These calix[4]arenes possess a flexible conformation for rapid ion-exchange across the PVC membrane to provide good response for silver ions. The prepared silver ion-selective electrodes exhibited near-Nernstian responses for silver ions over a wide concentration range of 1.0 × 10−1–1.0 × 10−5 M with a very low detection limit of ∼10−6 M. The potentiometric responses were independent of the pH of the test solution over wide acidic pH range. The effect of various plasticizers on the electrode characteristics was also examined, and bis(2-ethylhexyl) sebacate proved to be the most suitable, since it provided the best slope and other electrode characteristics. High selectivity for Ag+ over Hg2+, Na+, and many other cations was found. The high selectivity for silver ions is mainly attributed to host–guest interactions that occur between the silver and appended groups of calix[4]arene derivatives. The electrodes were used as indicator electrodes in potentiometric titration involving silver ion, and provided a simple method for the determination of Ag+ and Cl− in water samples.
Preparation of Rhodium Pentasulfido(2−) Complexes with Hydrotris(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)borato Coligand
Authors: Nagao Shoken , Saito Nobuyuki , Kojima Aiko , Seino Hidetake , Mizobe Yasushi
Published: August 2005

Treatment of [Tp*Rh(coe)(MeCN)] (Tp* = hydrotris(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)borate; coe = cyclooctene) with S8 in MeCN afforded a complex with a chelating pentasulfido(2−) ligand [Tp*Rh(S5)(MeCN)], which was converted further to [Tp*Rh(S5)(CNXy)] (3; Xy = 2,6-Me2C6H3) by the reaction with XyNC. An X-ray analysis was carried out for 3, which disclosed a chair conformation for the RhS5 ring.
Asymmetric PCR Using the Primers Anchored on the Surface of Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Shen Hebai , Zhou Haiqing , Wang Youbao , Yang Zhongnan , Wang Chen
Published: August 2005

Asymmetric PCR is generally used to produce ssDNA, which could function as probes for detecting various kinds of genes. An asymmetric PCR technique based on magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) has been developed in this work. One of the two amplification primers was bound to the MNP surface by modifying its 5′-end and leaving the 3′-end available for DNA polymerase activity, while the other was unbound. The results obtained showed that PCR could proceed successfully when the concentration ratio of the unbound primer to the MNP-bound primer was from 1:100 to 1:10. Plenty of target ssDNA connected with MNPs (MNP–ssDNA complexes) along with some dsDNA with one strand connected to MNPs could be generated. In virtue of their immobilization on the MNP surface, asymmetric PCR products could be easily isolated by the external magnetic field. This new surface asymmetric amplification process can be used not only to produce MNP–ssDNA complexes, but also to provide an alternative route to isolate products of asymmetry PCR.
Electrooxidation of Alcohols in an N-Oxyl-Immobilized Poly(ethylene-co-acrylic acid)/Water Disperse System
Authors: Tanaka Hideo , Kubota Jun , Miyahara Seiji , Kuroboshi Manabu
Published: August 2005

The electrooxidation of alcohols in a disperse system with N-oxyl-immobilized polymer particles (PE-co-AA-N-Oxyl), prepared from poly(ethylene-co-acrylic acid) (PE-co-AA-CO2H), as a disperse phase and an aqueous saturated NaHCO3 containing 20 wt % NaBr as a disperse medium was successfully performed in a simple beaker-type undivided cell under constant-current conditions. The electrooxidation of alcohols proceeded in a similar manner by the use of PE-co-AA-CO2H as a disperse phase, though the current efficiency decreased in some extent. Protection of most of the carboxylic acid moieties on the surface of PE-co-AA-CO2H by esterification or amidation resulted in significant decrease of the product yields, suggesting that the carboxylic acid moieties on the surface of PE-co-AA-CO2H would also act as a mediator for the electrooxidation of alcohols. Both the recovered PE-co-AA-N-Oxyl and the aqueous solution were used repeatedly for the electrooxidation of alcohols, thereby offering a formally closed system for the electrooxidation of alcohols.
Specific Permeation of Hydrophobic Solutes across a Hydrophobic Polymer Membrane
Authors: Igawa Manabu , Okuma Hironobu , Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Published: August 2005

A hydrophobic solute, thymol, was separated from a hydrophilic solute, glucose, with a separation factor of over 230 across a hydrophobic FEP membrane. Hydrophobic solutes are highly partitioned to the membrane, diffused, and back-extracted to the alkaline receiving phase solution by their dissociation, while hydrophilic solutes are rejected by the membrane.
Australian women's needs and preferences for information about human papillomavirus in cervical screening
Authors: McCaffery Kirsten , Irwig Les
Published: August 2005

Objective: The role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in cervical cancer and developments in medical technology to prevent cervical cancer has changed information needs for women participating in cervical screening.

Design: Qualitative face-to-face interviews were conducted with 19 women diagnosed with HPV infection on their Pap smear following routine cervical screening.

Setting: Family planning clinics, general practice and specialist gynaecologist practices in Sydney and the surrounding area, Australia.

Main outcome measures: Women's information needs, preferences and experiences of HPV diagnosis.

Results: Women wanted further information on different HPV viral types, transmission, implications for sexual partners, prevalence, latency and regression of HPV, their management options and the implications of infection for cancer risk and fertility. Uncertainty about the key aspects of HPV, the style in which the clinician communicated the result and the mode of delivering the result (letter, telephone or consultation) influenced women's psychological response to the diagnosis of HPV. The delivery of results by letter alone was linked to considerable anxiety among the women interviewed. Women's experience of searching the Internet for further information about HPV was reported as difficult, anxiety provoking and contributing to the stigma of the infection because information was often located in the context of other sexually transmitted infections, with multiple sexual partners highlighted as a risk factor for infection.

Conclusion: Women participating in cervical screening need high-quality information about HPV and its role in cervical cancer prior to screening rather than afterwards, when they face an abnormal result. The clinician potentially plays an important role in moderating the effects of diagnosis through the manner and mode in which an HPV diagnosis is delivered. Revision of cervical screening policy and practice in light of the changes in the understanding of HPV is recommended.
Screening for hearing loss in childhood: issues, evidence and current approaches in the UK
Authors: Bamford John , Uus Kai , Davis Adrian
Published: August 2005

Until recently, screening for childhood hearing loss in the UK was based on two universal (i.e. whole population) screens: the infant distraction test screen at age eight months and the school entry hearing screen at age four to five years. Evidence reviewed in the 1990s indicated that the infant distraction test screen was seriously underperforming, but that (based on technology that had become available in the 1980s and 1990s) universal newborn hearing screening could be efficacious. At the same time, evidence was emerging on the importance and value of very early identification and intervention for permanent congenital childhood hearing loss. This led to the decision to implement a national newborn hearing screening programme (NHSP) in England and to phase out the distraction test at eight months. The initial implementation of the programme will be completed in 2005, and we summarize the evidence on the effectiveness of the first phase of the programme here. A number of important issues concerning childhood hearing loss and its management remain unresolved: the burden of late-onset and temporary childhood hearing losses, the most effective approaches to intervention and management, the case for screening for mild and/or unilateral hearing loss, and the role of the School entry screen. Some of the current research efforts to address these are outlined.