bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immobilization and controlled release of prostaglandin E2 from poly‐L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide microspheres
Authors: Brochhausen Christoph , Zehbe Rolf , Watzer Bernhard , Halstenberg Sven , Gabler Franziska , Schubert Helmut , Kirkpatrick Charles James
Published: November 2008

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is an arachidonic acid metabolite involved in physiological homeostasis and numerous pathophysiological conditions. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that prostaglandins have a stimulating effect not only on angiogenesis in situ and in vitro but also on chondrocyte proliferation in vitro. Thus, PGE2 represents an interesting signaling molecule for various tissue engineering strategies. However, under physiological conditions, PGE2 has a half‐life time of only 10 min, which limits its use in biomedical applications. In the present study, we investigated if the incorporation of PGE2 into biodegradable poly‐L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide microspheres results in a prolonged release of this molecule in its active form. PGE2‐modified microspheres were produced by a cosolvent emulsification method using CHCl3 and HFIP as organic solvents and PVA as emulsifier. Thirteen identical batches were produced; and to each batch 1.0 mL of serum‐free medium was added. The medium was removed at defined time points and then analyzed by gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) to measure the residual PGE2 content. In this study we demonstrated the prolonged release of PGE2, showing a linear increase over the first 12 h, followed by a plateau and a slow decrease. The microspheres were further characterized by scanning electron microscopy. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Protein adsorption on derivatives of hyaluronic acid and subsequent cellular response
Authors: Lord Megan S. , Pasqui Daniela , Barbucci Rolando , Milthorpe Bruce K.
Published: November 2008

The modulation of biological interactions with artificial surfaces is a vital aspect of biomaterials research. Serum protein adsorption onto photoreactive hyaluronic acid (Hyal‐N3) and its sulfated derivative (HyalS‐N3) was analyzed to determine extent of protein interaction and protein conformation as well as subsequent cell adhesion. There were no significant (p < 0.01) differences in the amount of protein adsorbed to the two polymers; however, proteins were found to be more loosely bound on HyalS‐N3 compared with Hyal‐N3. Fibronectin was adsorbed onto HyalS‐N3 in such an orientation as to allow the availability of the cell binding region, while there was more restricted access to this region on fibronectin adsorbed onto Hyal‐N3. This was confirmed by reduced cell adhesion on fibronectin precoated Hyal‐N3 compared with fibronectin precoated HyalS‐N3. Minimal cell adhesion was observed on albumin and serum precoated Hyal‐N3. The quartz crystal microbalance confirmed that specific cell‐surface interactions were experienced by cells interacting with the fibronectin precoated polymers and serum precoated HyalS‐N3. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Characterization of esterified hyaluronan‐gelatin polymer composites suitable for chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Angele Peter , Müller Rainer , Schumann Detlef , Englert Carsten , Zellner Johannes , Johnstone Brian , Yoo Jung , Hammer Joachim , Fierlbeck Johann , Angele Martin K. , Nerlich Michael , Kujat Richard
Published: November 2008

Composite scaffolds of homogeneously mixed esterified hyaluronan (HY) and gelatin (G) were manufactured with variable component compositions (HY100%; HY95%/G5%; HY70%/G30%). The goals of this study were to analyze the produced composite scaffolds using physical and chemical methods, for example, scanning electron microscopy, IR‐spectroscopy, water contact angle, protein assay, and tensile testing as well as to assess the effects of adding gelatin to the composite scaffolds on attachment, proliferation, and chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. Numbers of attached cells were significantly higher on the composite material compared to pure hyaluronan at different time points of two‐dimensional or three‐dimensional cell culture (p< 0.02). In composite scaffolds, a significantly greater amount of cartilage‐specific extracellular matrix components was deposited after 28 days in culture (glycosaminoglycan: p < 0.001; collagen: p < 0.001) as compared with 100% hyaluronan scaffolds. Additionally, gelatin‐containing composite scaffolds displayed stronger promotion of collagen type II expression than pure hyaluronan scaffolds. The mechanism, based on which gelatin influences cell adhesion, was examined. The effect was inhibited by collagenase treatment of the composites or by addition of α5β1‐integrin blocking antibodies to the cell suspension. In summary, the results describe the establishment of a class of composite polymer scaffolds, consisting of esterified hyaluronan and gelatin, which are potentially useful for cell‐based tissue engineering approaches using mesenchymal stem cells for chondrogenic differentiation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2009
Effects of nerve growth factor from genipin‐crosslinked gelatin in polycaprolactone conduit on peripheral nerve regeneration—In vitro and in vivo
Authors: Chang Chen‐Jung
Published: November 2008

The gelatin solution crosslinked by genipin (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5% w/w) was studied as a nerve growth factor (NGF) carrier (GGp0, GGp0.1, GGp0.5, GGp1.0, and GGp1.5) in a polycaprolactone conduit in large‐gap nerve regeneration. The GGp0 and GGp0.1 displayed the highest activity of PC12 cells and inhibited the reduction of 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT). No cytotoxicity was found in all groups by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. The NGF‐releasing characters were obtained by ELISA tests. A relatively fast release rate appeared during the first 10 days and then a subsequent slower release profile followed. NGF was higher in GGp0.1 than in GGp0 and GGp0.1 after 10 days. The bioactivity of the released NGF remains the same when measuring the neurite outgrowth of PC 12 cells. Finally, the controlled‐release conduits were implanted into 12‐mm long sciatic nerve gaps of rats. In addition, the best site of NGF carrier was determined either by filling carrier into the conduit lumen or by sucking carrier to the conduit wall. Four and 8 weeks after implantation, morphological analysis revealed that GGp0.1 conduits had markedly larger and more number of myelin axons in the midconduit and distal nerve. Further, sucking the carrier into the conduit wall was an efficient and convenient way to prevent the regeneration of axons and vessels from being impaired by the lumen's carrier. The genipin‐crosslinked gelatin is a promising carrier in producing a high release concentration and a long release period of NGF to promote the regeneration over a large‐gap nerve injury. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2009
Development of transgenic endothelial progenitor cell‐seeded stents
Authors: Zhou Zhenhua , Shi Shugui , Song Mingbao , Huang Heqing , Chen Kangning , Mi Jianhong , Li Lusi , Chen Guisheng , Hou Chunli , Huang Guangyu , Zhu Chuhong
Published: November 2008

Endothelial progenitor cell (EPC)‐seeded intravascular stents may reduce or prevent in‐stent restenosis. A20 can play an important role for preventing vascular restenosis. Therefore, it is very important how to enhance the seeding efficiency of A20‐modified EPCs on the stent for preventing in‐stent restenosis. To approach this problem, we developed a novel transgenic EPC‐seeded stent and evaluated its feasibility and efficiency. EPCs were isolated and purified from umbilical blood using immunomagnetic beads and then transfected with the A20 gene. One stent type (type 1) was coated with EDC cross‐linked collagen, and another stent type (type 2) was coated with EDC cross‐linked collagen and bound to the CD34 antibody using the bifunctional coupling agent N‐succinmidyl3‐(2‐pyridyldithio) propionate (SPDP). Then, the stents were seeded with EPCs transfected with the A20 gene. The stents were implanted in biological artificial vessels, and cell adhesion was determined in a flow chamber. Cell growth was also measured. EPCs were transfected successfully with the A20 gene. The cells covered both types of stents with favorable biological function. After placement in a flow chamber, the number of cells attached to type 1 stents significantly dropped and their distribution was scattered. Type 2 stents were basically covered with cells and there were more cells on type 2 stents than on type 1 stents (p < 0.01). Collagen‐coupled antibody effectively improves the seeding of transgenic EPCs, offering a new choice of stents to prevent restenosis caused by vascular disease after interventional treatment.© 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Diamond‐like carbon coatings enhance scratch resistance of bearing surfaces for use in joint arthroplasty: Hard substrates outperform soft
Authors: Roy Marie E. , Whiteside Leo A. , Katerberg Brian J.
Published: November 2008

The purpose of this study was to test the hypotheses that diamond‐like carbon (DLC) coatings will enhance the scratch resistance of a bearing surface in joint arthroplasty, and that a hard ceramic substrate will further enhance scratch resistance by reducing plastic deformation. We tested these hypotheses by applying a hard DLC coating to medical‐grade cobalt chromium alloy (CoCr) and magnesia‐stabilized zirconia (Mg‐PSZ) femoral heads and performing scratch tests to determine the loads required to cause cohesive and adhesive fracture of the coating. Scratch tracks of DLC‐coated and noncoated heads were then scanned by optical profilometry to determine scratch depth, width, and pile‐up (raised edges), as measures of susceptibility to scratching. DLC‐coated CoCr specimens exhibited cohesive coating fracture as wedge spallation at an average load of 9.74 N, whereas DLC‐coated Mg‐PSZ exhibited cohesive fracture as arc‐tensile cracks and chipping at a significantly higher average load of 41.3 N (p < 0.0001). At adhesive coating fracture, DLC‐CoCr delaminated at an average load of 35.2 N, whereas DLC‐Mg‐PSZ fractured by recovery spallation at a significantly higher average load of 46.8 N (p < 0.05). Both DLC‐CoCr and DLC‐Mg‐PSZ specimens exhibited significantly shallower scratches and less pile‐up than did uncoated specimens (p < 0.005 and p < 0.01, respectively). However, the harder ceramic substrate of DLC‐Mg‐PSZ better resisted plastic deformation, requiring significantly higher loads for cohesive and adhesive coating fracture. These findings supported both of our hypotheses. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
An in vivo evaluation of the biocompatibility of anodic plasma chemical (APC) treatment of titanium with calcium phosphate
Authors: Schlegel P. , Hayes J. S. , Frauchiger V. M. , Gasser B. , Wieling R. , Textor M. , Richards R. G.
Published: November 2008

Implant loosening is an unresolved complication associated with prosthetics. Previous studies report improved osseointegration with hydroxyapatite (HA) or tri‐calcium phosphate coatings. Unfortunately, the brittleness and low strength of these coatings in adhesion to the implant or internal cohesion is problematic, restricting their use. Anodic plasma‐chemical (APC) treatment, an advanced anodisation method, allows for porous oxide layer formation with incorporation of calcium and phosphate directly into the oxide. This produces superior adhesive strength than a conventional coating of calcium phosphate offering potential for long‐term osseointegration. Although the cytocompatibility of several APC treatments have been previously shown, this study was the first to investigate the biocompatibility and osteoconductivity of APC surfaces in vivo when compared with standard HA coated and noncoated commercially pure titanium implant cortical screws. Sample screws were implanted in female Swiss alpine sheep for 12 weeks. Bone remodelling in situ, differences in bone apposition resulting in cortical thickening as well as peak removal torque measurements were assessed. We found no significant differences between the tested coatings and no delamination was observed with any of the APC‐treated surfaces. The results suggest that APC‐treated samples have similar biological performance to HA‐coated screws. In our opinion, APC treatment, which also has superior binding strength to the base metal compared with standard HA coatings as well as similar biocompatibility as shown here, holds great potential for biomedical applications. Now that the in vivo biocompatibility has been proven, the work is being extended to more challenging in vivo models. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Development of chitosan–ellagic acid films as a local drug delivery system to induce apoptotic death of human melanoma cells
Authors: Kim Sungwoo , Liu Yongxing , Gaber M. Waleed , Bumgardner Joel D. , Haggard Warren O. , Yang Yunzhi
Published: November 2008

This study was designed to develop a local chemotherapy device using chitosan as a local drug carrier and ellagic acid (EA) as an anticancer drug. We fabricated chitosan–ellagic acid (Ch–EA) films with concentrations of 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, and 1% (w/v) of EA and examined the films using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and contact angle measurement. The WM115 human melanoma cell line as a skin cancer model was used to evaluate cell response to the films with the MTS assay and apoptosis assay, and HS68 human newborn fibroblast cell line as a control. With the increase in the concentration of the EA, the composite films exhibit increasing amide and ester groups and diffraction peaks of the crystallized EA and greater surface roughness and hydrophilicity. The chitosan films with 0.5 and 1% (w/v) of EA were found to have a potent antiproliferative effect on the melanoma cells by inducing apoptotic cell death. Localized effect of composites on cell behaviors has been clearly demonstrated. Our study demonstrated that the novel Ch–EA film can be potentially used in local chemotherapy. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
A novel method to identify the Chinese herbal medicine Wuzhimaotao by quantification of laticifers
Authors: Au Dawn Tung , Chen Hubiao , Jiang Zhihong , Zhao Zhongzhen
Published: November 2008

Histology and the microscope have been used to identify Chinese herbal medicines for a long time. However, research on using the microscope for quantitative determination of identification characters is limited. A novel method which combines histological and microscopic analysis of laticifers by “blob” analysis is established to identify Wuzhimaotao, which is derived from species of Ficus (primarily F. hirta Vahl, but F. simplicissima Lour., F. hirta Vahl var. imberbis Gagnep., and F. esquiroliana Lévl. are also used). Results indicate that laticifers, which are stained orange‐red by Sudan III, are mainly scattered in the phloem of Wuzhimaotao. The blob area of the laticifers is varied according to the species: F. hirta Vahl, F. simplicissima Lour., F. hirta Vahl var. imberbis Gagnep., and F. esquiroliana Lévl. showed 86,609 ± 3,768 (mean ± SD, n = 10), 48,582 ± 2,603 (n = 10), 68,745 ± 2,179 (n = 5), and 27,966 ± 2,121 (n = 3) blob area, respectively. By directly measuring the blob area of laticifers in transverse sections, we could distinguish species of Wuzhimaotao in the same genus which were difficult to distinguish by microscopic examination of the dry roots, and we could provide objective data to describe and standardize the characters observed in microscopic images. This method is rapid, accurate, and inexpensive. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Is Diurodrilus an annelid?
Authors: Worsaae Katrine , Rouse Greg W.
Published: November 2008

Interstitial marine meiofaunal worms of the genus Diurodrilus have always been considered part of Annelida, either as basal or derived, though generally with reference to Dinophilidae. New evidence shows that Diurodrilus has a unique anatomy, and lacks key annelid features, possibly even segmentation. We assessed the systematic position of Diurodrilus among other protostome animals via light microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy studies of anatomy, focusing on musculature, the nervous system, as well as molecular sequence data. We show that there is little morphological or molecular evidence to support a relationship with Dinophilidae or any other annelids. Diurodrilus has some similarities to Micrognathozoa, though the latter shows complex jaws. On the basis of the configuration of the nervous system and the cuticle we regard Diurodrilus to belong to Spiralia, possibly close to Annelida; however, until further evidence is acquired it should be regarded as incertae sedis in this large animal clade. J. Morphol., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preparative isolation and purification of two amides from Mallotus lianus Croiz by high‐speed counter‐current chromatography
Authors: Jiang Liyan , Lu Yanbin , He Shan , Pan Yuanjiang , Sun Cuirong , Wu Tianxing
Published: November 2008

High‐speed counter‐current chromatography (HSCCC) was applied to the preparative isolation and purification of two amides from Mallotus lianus Croiz. In a single HSCCC separation, using the two‐phase solvent system composed of n‐hexane/ethyl acetate/methanol/water (5:1:5:1 v/v), 247.5 mg of the enriched crude sample was separated to afford 10.3 mg of N‐isobutyl‐2E,4E,12Z‐octadecatrienamide and 15.7 mg of (7Z,10Z,18Z)tricosa‐7,10,18‐trienamide, a novel compound, with the purities of 98.0 and 94.6%, respectively. The HSCCC fractions were analyzed by HPLC and chemical structures of the compounds were identified by 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR, ESI‐, and GC‐MS.
Analytical procedure to simultaneously measure trace amounts of trenbolone acetate and β‐trenbolone residues in porcine muscle using HPLC‐UVD and MS
Authors: Liu Xue , Abd El‐Aty A. M. , Choi Jeong‐Heui , Khay Sathya , Mamun M. I. R. , Jeon Hyang‐Rang , Lee Soon‐Ho , Chang Byung‐Joon , Lee Chi‐Ho , Shin Ho‐Chul , Shim Jae‐Han
Published: November 2008

The current study was undertaken to validate the performance for the determination of both TBA and β‐trenbolone (β‐TB) residues in porcine muscle at concentrations required to monitor compliance with the maximum residue limit (MRL). The method involves a one phase liquid–liquid extraction, cleanup with low‐temperature fat precipitation, separation of the respective compounds by HPLC on a Capcell pak C18 column, use of a methanol–water isocratic system as an eluent, and measurement by UV absorbance detection at 340 nm. Both compounds were confirmed using LC‐MS/MS with electrospray interface (ESI) and a triple quadrupole (QqQ) analyzer. The method was found to be precise and accurate, with a linearity range of 1–10 μg/kg (r2 >0.973). The intra‐ and interday precision showed good reproducibility with RSDs ⪇13.25%. The LODs were 0.12 and 0.22 μg/kg, and the LOQs were 0.37 and 0.66 μg/kg, for TBA and β‐TB, respectively. The applicability of the method was demonstrated by analyzing real samples collected from major cities in the Republic of Korea. No residues of the selected compounds were detected in any of the samples. The advantages of our method are that it is: selective, sensitive, requires a short time for analysis (13 min), and performs simple sample extraction and clean‐up procedure with low‐temperature fat precipitation as compared to the previously published methods.
Unique Size‐Change Behavior of Photo‐Crosslinked Cinnamic Acid Derivative Nanoparticles during Hydrolytic Degradation
Authors: Shi Dongjian , Matsusaki Michiya , Akashi Mitsuru
Published: November 2008

A unique size change of photo‐crosslinkable poly[(3,4‐dihydroxycinnamic acid)‐co‐(4‐hydroxycinnamic acid)] nanoparticles was observed during hydrolytic degradation depending on the crosslinking degree. The diameter of uncrosslinked nanoparticles decreased from 850 to 300 nm during hydrolysis, whereas that of 75% crosslinked nanoparticles increased from 700 to 950 nm. The diameter changes of crosslinked nanoparticles during hydrolysis might be induced by swelling of the crosslinked networks depending on the crosslinking degree. Moreover, the diameter of the uncrosslinked nanoparticle recovered by additional UV irradiation during hydrolysis. These results suggested that the diameter of the nanoparticles could be controlled even during hydrolysis by UV irradiation.

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Compatibilization through Specific Interactions and Dynamic Fragility in Poly(D,L‐lactide)/Polystyrene Blends
Authors: Zuza Ester , Lejardi Ainhoa , Ugartemendia Jone M. , Monasterio Nuria , Meaurio Emilio , Sarasua Jose‐Ramon
Published: November 2008

Incorporation of OH groups into PS by copolymerization with hydroxystyrene caused specific OH···OC interactions with carbonyl groups of PDLLA. PDLLA blends with PSHS16 were completely miscible across the whole composition range, showing a single glass transition. Specific interactions and phase structure were analyzed by FTIR spectroscopy and SEM. DMA around Tg using the WLF theory and Angell's dynamic fragility concept revealed that specific interactions are not acting as other topological constraints (cross‐links, crystalline lamellae, silicate layers), since they rather provide a retardation of segmental dynamics.

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Distinguishing standard SBL‐algebras with involutive negations by propositional formulas
Authors: Haniková Zuzana , Savický Petr
Published: November 2008

Propositional fuzzy logics given by a combination of a continuous SBL t‐norm with finitely many idempotents and of an involutive negation are investigated. A characterization of continuous t‐norms which, in combination with different involutive negations, yield either isomorphic algebras or algebras with distinct and incomparable sets of propositional tautologies is presented. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Non‐elementary speed‐ups in logic calculi
Authors: Arai Toshiyasu
Published: November 2008

In this paper we show some non‐elementary speed‐ups in logic calculi: Both a predicative second‐order logic and a logic for fixed points of positive formulas are shown to have non‐elementary speed‐ups over first‐order logic. Also it is shown that eliminating second‐order cut formulas in second‐order logic has to increase sizes of proofs super‐exponentially, and the same in eliminating second‐order epsilon axioms. These are proved by relying on results due to P. Pudlák. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fabrication and Properties of Vegetable‐Oil‐Based Glass Fiber Composites by Ring‐Opening Metathesis Polymerization
Authors: Henna Phillip H. , Kessler Michael R. , Larock Richard C.
Published: November 2008

Glass fiber biobased composites have been prepared by ROMP of a commercially available vegetable oil derivative possessing an unsaturated bicyclic moiety, and DCPD. The resins and the corresponding composites have been characterized thermophysically and mechanically. Higher DCPD content yields materials with higher glass transition temperatures. Glass fibers significantly improve the tensile modulus of the resin from 28.7 to 168 MPa. These biobased composites utilize only a limited amount of a petroleum‐based monomer, while employing substantial amounts of a renewable resource.

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A structural look at consumer innovativeness and self‐congruence in new product purchases
Authors: Cowart Kelly O. , Fox Gavin L. , Wilson Andrew E.
Published: November 2008

Consumer innovativeness and new product purchasing literatures are replete with solid yet unrelated theories that have not been considered simultaneously as part of a larger psychological framework. This oversight limits the ability of practitioners to effectively target the valuable consumer innovators market segment. In this study, an approach/avoidance framework of new product purchase intentions is discussed and empirically tested via structural equation modeling. Consumer innovativeness, self‐congruence, and satisfaction play the role of approach mechanisms, while perceived risk acts as an avoidance mechanism. The authors combine a set of related yet disconnected theories, while suggesting a means of appealing to consumer innovators through a specific form of self‐congruence. A sample of 741 students is employed to examine these issues. Several notable findings are highlighted, including verification of indirect relationships between the independent variables and behavioral intent. Model fit is excellent and results are consistent across the handheld devices, home entertainment, and music industries. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fragmentations of (M–H)− anions of underivatised peptides. Part 2: Characteristic cleavages of Ser and Cys and of disulfides and other post‐translational modifications, together with some unusual internal processes
Authors: Bilusich Daniel , Bowie John. H.
Published: November 2008

In a previous review (Bowie, Brinkworth, & Dua (2002); Mass Spectrom Rev 21:87–107) we described the characteristic backbone cleavages and side chain fragmentations which occur from (M–H)− parent anions of underivatized peptides. This work is briefly summarized in the present review. Cys was not described in the previous review: here we describe the Cys characteristic side chain loss of H2S, together with its γ backbone cleavage. These processes are compared with those of the related Ser. All experimental observations are backed up with theoretical studies at the HF/6‐31G(d)//AM1 level of theory, a level of theory which we have shown gives good geometries and acceptable relative energies. The negative ion cleavages of a number of post‐translational modifications are described. Negative ion mass spectrometry is the method of choice for identification of disulfides in both peptides and proteins. Intramolecular disulfides are identified by the presence of the fragment anion [(M–H)−–H2S2], and CID MS2 of this fragment normally identifies the positions of the two Cys residues and often the full sequence of the peptide. An unsymmetrically substituted intermolecular disulfide can give up to eight characteristic fragment anions, and CID MS2 of some, or all of these often provides the full sequence of those peptides which form the initial intermolecular disulfide linkage. Negative ion cleavages of disulfides are the most energetically favored of all peptide negative cleavages studied to date. Negative ion mass spectrometry is also valuable for the identification of pyroglutamates, sulfates and phosphates. Finally, some unusual fragmentations are described which involve cyclization/elimination reactions which require the decomposing (M–H)− parent anions to adopt the same helical conformation that these peptides have in solution. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 28:20–34, 2009
Bromocriptine use and the risk of valvular heart disease
Authors: Tan Louis C.S. , Ng Kenneth K.C. , Au Wing‐Lok , Lee Raymond K.K. , Chan Yiong‐Huak , Tan Nigel C.K.
Published: November 2008

It has been reported that patients on pergolide and carbergoline have an increased risk of developing valvular heart disease. It is uncertain if bromocriptine, an ergot‐derived dopamine agonist (DA) with partial 5‐HT2B activity, is associated with a similar risk. We assessed the frequency of valvular heart disease in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients on bromocriptine compared to pergolide and a control group of PD patients who had not been treated on any DA. Seventy‐two PD patients on bromocriptine, 21 patients on pergolide, and 47 control PD patients were recruited. Transthoracic echocardiographic studies were performed and reviewed by a blinded cardiologist. The risk for the bromocriptine group to develop any abnormal valvular regurgitation was 3.32 (adjusted OR, 95% CI: 1.11–9.92, P = 0.03) compared to controls, whereas the risk for the pergolide group was 3.66 (adjusted OR, 95% CI: 1.22–10.97, P = 0.02). When cumulative dose of bromocriptine was analyzed by quartiles, patients with a greater exposure to bromocriptine had significantly higher risk of developing both mild and moderate‐severe regurgitations (P for trend, 0.005 and 0.019, respectively). This study demonstrated that bromocriptine use was associated with an increased risk of developing valvular heart disease, which occurred in a cumulative dose‐dependent manner. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
Soy, isoflavones, and prostate cancer
Authors: Jian Le
Published: November 2008

Prostate cancer has marked geographic variations between countries. Genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors co‐contribute to the development of the cancer. The association between dietary factors and prostate cancer has been investigated and one explanation for the low incidence of the cancer in Asia might be high consumption of fresh vegetables including soybean and its products. Soybean is a species of legume contain high amount of isoflavones including genistein, daidzein, glycitein, and equol, which have a prophylactic effect on prostate cancer. In this article, epidemiological and laboratory studies on the relationship between soybeans, isoflavones and prostate cancer are reviewed and large scale multiethnic epidemiological studies are recommended.
Tea, Coffee and Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lee Andy H. , Fraser Michelle L. , Binns Colin W.
Published: November 2008

Worldwide, prostate cancer has the second highest incidence of all cancers in males with incidence and mortality being much higher in affluent developed countries. Risk and progression of the disease may be linked to both genetic and environmental factors, especially dietary factors. Tea and coffee are two of the most popular beverages in the world and have been investigated for possible effects on health outcomes, including cancer. However, very little dietary advice for their consumption exists. The evidence for a relationship between coffee or tea consumption and prostate cancer is reviewed in this paper. While current evidence indicates that coffee is a safe beverage, its consumption probably has no relationship with prostate cancer. Tea, especially green tea, has shown some potential in the prevention of prostate cancer. While evidence from epidemiologic studies is currently inconclusive, strong evidence has emerged from animal and in vitro studies. We also consider what level of evidence is required to make recommendations for preventive measures to the public. Although evidence on the relationship between coffee, tea and prostate cancer is not complete, we consider it strong enough to recommend tea as a healthier alternative to coffee.
Solid‐state natural abundance 25Mg NMR studies of Na2MgEDTA·4H2O—a possible new reference compound for 25Mg NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Freitas Jair C. C. , Wong Alan , Smith Mark E.
Published: November 2008

Natural abundance solid‐state 25Mg NMR measurements were made of the disodium salt of magnesium ethylenediaminetetraacetate tetrahydrate (Na2MgEDTA·4H2O). Both magic angle spinning (MAS) and static experiments were employed to determine the quadrupole coupling constant (Cq) and the asymmetry parameter (ηq) of the electric field gradient (EFG) tensor associated with 25Mg in this compound, giving the values Cq = 1.675(5) MHz and ηq = 0.15(1). The isotropic chemical shift was determined to be δiso = 0.25(10) ppm (relative to 11 M MgCl2 aqueous solution) and a small chemical shift anisotropy (CSA) contribution (∼− 13 ppm) was detected, one of the first CSA reports in 25Mg NMR. This compound exhibited remarkably good 25Mg NMR sensitivity, due to its fast spin‐lattice relaxation and modest quadrupole coupling, which allowed its use as a secondary shift reference and as a test sample for the implementation and optimisation of signal‐enhancement methods in 25Mg NMR spectroscopy, such as double frequency sweeps (DFS) and the use of adiabatic hyperbolic secant (HS) and WURST pulses. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Some numerical issues using element‐free Galerkin mesh‐less method for coupled hydro‐mechanical problems
Authors: Oliaei Mohammad Norouz , Soga Kenichi , Pak Ali
Published: November 2008

A new formulation of the element‐free Galerkin (EFG) method is developed for solving coupled hydro‐mechanical problems. The numerical approach is based on solving the two governing partial differential equations of equilibrium and continuity of pore water simultaneously. Spatial variables in the weak form, i.e. displacement increment and pore water pressure increment, are discretized using the same EFG shape functions. An incremental constrained Galerkin weak form is used to create the discrete system equations and a fully implicit scheme is used for discretization in the time domain. Implementation of essential boundary conditions is based on a penalty method. Numerical stability of the developed formulation is examined in order to achieve appropriate accuracy of the EFG solution for coupled hydro‐mechanical problems. Examples are studied and compared with closed‐form or finite element method solutions to demonstrate the validity of the developed model and its capabilities. The results indicate that the EFG method is capable of handling coupled problems in saturated porous media and can predict well both the soil deformation and variation of pore water pressure over time. Some guidelines are proposed to guarantee the accuracy of the EFG solution for coupled hydro‐mechanical problems. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Large stress reversals in true triaxial tests on cross‐anisotropic sand
Authors: Yamamuro Jerry A. , Lade Poul V.
Published: November 2008

The results of a series of true triaxial tests with stress paths involving large reversals under 3D conditions are presented. These tests were performed on medium dense Santa Monica Beach sand to provide experimental evidence for the rotational kinematic hardening hypothesis presented in a companion paper and to provide stress–strain and volume change relations for experiments with 3D stress paths and large stress reversals to be predicted by the rotational kinematic hardening model. The experimental equipment and the testing procedures are briefly explained followed by a presentation of the experimental results and their sensitivity to unknown causes as well as effects of cross‐anisotropy on the sand behavior. The stress paths are presented in a σ3′‐plane and in an octahedral plane and the directions of experimental strain increment vectors are compared with those obtained from the rotational kinematic hardening model. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vertical dynamic response of pile in a radially heterogeneous soil layer
Authors: Yang D. Y. , Wang K. H. , Zhang Z. Q. , Leo Chin Jian
Published: November 2008

An analysis of a pile vertical response considering soil inhomogeneity in the radial direction under dynamic loads is presented. The solution technique is based on a three‐dimensional axisymmetric model, which includes the consideration of the vertical displacement of the soil. The soil domain is subdivided into a number of annular vertical zones, and the continuity of the displacements and stresses are imposed at both the interface of pile–soil and the interfaces of adjacent soil zones to establish the dynamic equilibrium equations of the pile–soil interaction. Then, the equations of each soil zone and of the pile are solved one by one to obtain the analytical and semi‐analytical dynamic responses at the top of the pile in the frequency domain and time domain. Parametric studies have been performed to examine the influence of soil parameters' variations in the radial direction caused by the construction effect on the dynamic responses of pile. The results of the studies have been summarized and presented in figures to illustrate the influences of the soil parameters as they change radially. The effect of the radius of the disturbed soil zone caused by construction is also studied in this paper. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cardiac effects of MDMA on the metabolic profile determined with1H‐magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the rat
Authors: Perrine Shane A. , Michaels Mark S. , Ghoddoussi Farhad , Hyde Elisabeth M. , Tancer Manuel E. , Galloway Matthew P.
Published: November 2008

Despite the potential for deleterious (even fatal) effects on cardiac physiology, 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; ecstasy) abuse abounds driven mainly by its euphoric effects. Acute exposure to MDMA has profound cardiovascular effects on blood pressure and heart rate in humans and animals. To determine the effects of MDMA on cardiac metabolites in rats, MDMA (0, 5, or 10 mg/kg) was injected every 2 h for a total of four injections; animals were sacrificed 2 h after the last injection (8 h drug exposure), and their hearts removed and tissue samples from left ventricular wall dissected. High resolution magic angle spinning proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) at 11.7 T, a specialized version of MRS aptly suited for analysis of semi‐solid materials such as intact tissue samples, was used to measure the cardiac metabolomic profile, including alanine, lactate, succinate, creatine, and carnitine, in heart tissue from rats treated with MDMA. MDMA effects on MR‐visible choline, glutamate, glutamine, and taurine were also determined. Body temperature was measured following each MDMA administration and serotonin and norepinephrine (NE) levels were measured by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) in heart tissue from treated animals. MDMA significantly and dose‐dependently increased body temperature, a hallmark of amphetamines. Serotonin, but not NE, levels were significantly and dose‐dependently decreased by MDMA in the heart wall. MDMA significantly altered the MR‐visible profile with an increase in carnitine and no change in other key compounds involved in cardiomyocyte energy metabolomics. Finally, choline levels were significantly decreased by MDMA in heart. The results are consistent with the notion that MDMA has significant effects on cardiovascular serotonergic tone and disrupts the metabolic homeostasis of energy regulation in cardiac tissue, potentially increasing utilization of fatty acid metabolism. The contributions of serotonergic signaling on MDMA‐induced changes in cardiac metabolism remain to be determined. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Limit analysis and convex programming: A decomposition approach of the kinematic mixed method
Authors: Pastor Franck , Loute Etienne , Pastor Joseph
Published: November 2008

This paper proposes an original decomposition approach to the upper bound method of limit analysis. It is based on a mixed finite element approach and on a convex interior point solver using linear or quadratic discontinuous velocity fields. Presented in plane strain, this method appears to be rapidly convergent, as verified in the Tresca compressed bar problem in the linear velocity case. Then, using discontinuous quadratic velocity fields, the method is applied to the celebrated problem of the stability factor of a Tresca vertical slope: the upper bound is lowered to 3.7776—value to be compared with the best published lower bound 3.772—by succeeding in solving non‐linear optimization problems with millions of variables and constraints. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The fibrotic phenotype of systemic sclerosis fibroblasts varies with disease duration and severity of skin involvement: reconstitution of skin fibrosis development using a tissue engineering approach
Authors: Corriveau Marie‐Pier , Boufaied Inès , Lessard Julie , Chabaud Stéphane , Senécal Jean‐Luc , Grodzicky Tamara , Chartier Suzanne , Raymond Yves , Moulin Véronique J
Published: November 2008

We set out to examine the pathophysiological mechanisms of fibrosis in diffuse systemic sclerosis (SSc) using a tissue engineering approach. Skin fibroblasts were isolated from lesional skin of SSc patients with a disease duration of less than 1 year (early‐stage SSc) or more than 10 years (late‐stage SSc). Fibroblasts were also isolated from non‐lesional skin and compared with normal fibroblasts isolated from healthy adults. Cells were cultured using a tissue engineering method to reconstruct a human dermis, and histologically observed. Dermal thickness was measured, as it reflects the global and intrinsic capacity of cells to reconstitute matrix. Collagen I, MMP‐1, and MMP activity were evaluated. Cells were treated with TGFβ1 or CTGF during dermis formation to study their fibrogenic role. Clinical severity of skin involvement was measured by a modified Rodnan score. Thickness of the dermis generated with non‐lesional early‐stage SSc fibroblasts was similar to normal cells. In contrast, reconstructed dermis from lesional early‐stage SSc fibroblasts and non‐lesional late‐stage SSc cells was thinner, while lesional late‐stage SSc fibroblasts made a thicker dermis. Dermis was always thicker when produced with TGFβ1‐treated cells, except when lesional late‐stage SSc fibroblasts from patients with high Rodnan skin scores were used. CTGF did not affect dermal thickness. Measurements of collagen I and collagenases in the culture medium of the various reconstructed dermis could explain some of the changes observed. We conclude that the fibrotic phenotype of SSc fibroblasts varies with disease duration and with severity of skin involvement, and this is clearly visualized during in vitro dermis reconstruction. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An integrated proteomics approach for studying the molecular pathogenesis of Dupuytren's disease
Authors: Kraljevic Pavelic Sandra , Sedic Mirela , Hock Karlo , Vucinic Srdan , Jurisic Davor , Gehrig Peter , Scott Mike , Schlapbach Ralph , Cacev Tamara , Kapitanovic Sanja , Pavelic Kresimir
Published: November 2008

Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a fibromatosis characterized by non‐malignant transformation of palmar fascia leading to permanent contraction of one or more fingers. Despite the extensive knowledge of its clinical pathogenesis, the aetiology of this disease remains obscure. In the present paper, we report for the first time on the proteomic profiling of diseased versus unaffected patient‐matched palmar fasciae tissues from DD patients using two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis coupled with mass spectrometry analysis. The herein identified proteins were then used to create the protein–protein interaction network (interactome). Such an integrated approach revealed the involvement of several different molecular processes related to DD progression, including extra‐ and intra‐cellular signalling, oxidative stress, cytoskeletal changes, and alterations in cellular metabolism. In particular, autocrine regulation through ERBB‐2 and IGF‐1R receptors and the Akt signalling pathway have emerged as novel components of pro‐survival signalling in Dupuytren's fibroblasts and thus might provide a basis for a new therapeutic strategy in Dupuytren's disease. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Severe vitamin B‐12 deficiency in a child mimicking thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Dimond Andrea , George James N. , Hastings Caroline
Published: November 2008

We report a case of severe vitamin B‐12 deficiency in a child who had a clinical presentation of hemolysis and thrombocytopenia that suggested the diagnosis of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and was associated with decreased ADAMTS13 activity. In this report, we review vitamin B‐12 deficiency in children, the relationship between ADAMTS13 activity and TTP and discuss other conditions associated with decreased ADAMTS13 activity. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:420–422. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reversal of iron‐induced dilated cardiomyopathy during therapy with deferasirox in beta‐thalassemia
Authors: Trad Omar , Hamdan Mohamed A. , Jamil Altaf , Khanani Muhammad F. , Ishaqi M. Kashif , Shamsi Aisha , Hayek Mohamed
Published: November 2008

A 15‐year‐old male with β‐thalassemia major developed dilated cardiomyopathy secondary to iron‐overload (Z‐scores of left ventricle (LV) dimensions >3, ejection fraction (EF) 33%). Treatment with deferoxamine was unsuccessful, presumably due to poor compliance. After 15 months of using deferasirox (DFX), LV end‐diastolic dimension normalized (Z‐scores <2), and EF improved to 58%. We conclude that treatment with DFX resulted in a reversal of iron‐induced cardiomyopathy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:426–428. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hereditary persistence of alpha‐fetoprotein
Authors: Li Xiaxin , Alexander Sarah
Published: November 2008

Hereditary persistence of alpha‐fetoprotein (HPAFP) is a rare benign autosomal dominant disorder. Here we report a 7‐year‐old healthy female who was found to have elevated alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) of 55–88 ng/ml over a 2‐year period. Subsequently, AFP was also determined to be elevated in another 4 out of 8 family members in three generations, consistent with an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Elevated AFP levels are usually related to pregnancy, congenital disorders, liver diseases, or specific malignancies. However, HPAFP should be considered in the differential diagnosis of children with unexplained elevation of AFP. This disorder can be easily confirmed by measuring AFP levels in family members or checking specific point mutations of AFP gene promoter. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:403–405. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phase II study of intermediate‐dose cytarabine in patients with relapsed or refractory Ewing sarcoma: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: DuBois Steven G. , Krailo Mark D. , Lessnick Stephen L. , Smith Richard , Chen Zhengjia , Marina Neyssa , Grier Holcombe E. , Stegmaier Kimberly
Published: November 2008

Background

Patients with relapsed or refractory Ewing sarcoma have a poor outcome with conventional therapies. Cytarabine decreases EWS/FLI1 protein levels in Ewing sarcoma cells and has demonstrated preclinical activity against Ewing sarcoma in vitro and in vivo. The purpose of this phase II clinical trial was to estimate the response rate of intermediate‐dose cytarabine in patients with relapsed or refractory Ewing sarcoma.

Procedure

Patients with a histologic diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma were eligible if they were <30 years of age, had relapsed or refractory measurable disease, and met standard organ function requirements. Patients received cytarabine 500 mg/m2/dose intravenously over 2 hr every 12 hr for 10 doses with cycles repeated every 21 days. Response was assessed according to RECIST criteria.

Results

Ten patients (median age 20 years; 7 males) were treated. Only five patients had documented EWS/FLI1 translocated tumors. No objective responses were seen. One patient had stable disease for 5 cycles before developing progressive disease. All patients evaluable for hematologic toxicity developed grade 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia during protocol therapy. Patients were not able to receive therapy according to the planned 21‐day cycles, with a median interval of 26.5 days.

Conclusions

Cytarabine at the dose and schedule utilized in this trial resulted in hematologic toxicity that limited delivery of this therapy. This regimen also had minimal activity in this patient population. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:324–327. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.