bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of cytochrome P450 2C9 expression in primary cultures of human hepatocytes
Authors: Sahi Jasminder , Shord Stacy S. , Lindley Celeste , Ferguson Stephen , LeCluyse Edward L.
Published: February 2009

Cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) expression is regulated by multiple nuclear receptors including the constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) and pregnane X receptor (PXR). We compared coregulation of CYP2C9 with CYP2B6 and CYP3A4, prototypical target genes for human CAR and PXR using human hepatocyte cultures treated for three days with the PXR activators clotrimazole, rifampin, and ritonavir; the CAR/PXR activator phenobarbital (PB); and the CAR‐selective agonists CITCO, (6‐(4‐chlorophenyl)imidazo[2,1‐β][1,3]thiazole‐5‐carbaldehyde‐O‐(3,4‐dichlorobenzyl)oxime) and phenytoin. Clotrimazole, rifampin, ritonavir, phenytoin, and phenobarbital induced CYP2C9 consistent with previous findings for CYP3A4. We observed EC50values of 519 μM (phenobarbital), 11 μM (phenytoin), and 0.75 μM (rifampin), similar to those for CYP3A4 induction. Avasimibe, a potent PXR activator, produced nearly identical concentration‐dependent CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 activity profiles and EC50values. In 17 donors, rifampin increased mean basal CYP2C9 activity from 59 ± 43 to 143 ± 68 pmol/mg protein/min; fold induction ranged from 1.4‐ to 6.4‐fold. Enzyme activity and mRNA measurements after rifampin, CITCO and PB treatment demonstrated potency and efficacy consistent with CYP2C9 regulation being analogous to CYP3A4 rather than CYP2B6. We demonstrate that hepatic CYP2C9 is differentially regulated by agonists of CAR and PXR, and despite sharing common regulatory mechanisms with CYP3A4 and CYP2B6; this enzyme exhibits an induction profile more closely aligned with that of CYP3A4. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 23:43–58, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20264
Desensitization of β‐adrenergic receptors in lung injury induced by 2‐chloroethyl ethyl sulfide, a mustard analog
Authors: Kabir Syeda M. , Mukherjee Shyamali , Rajaratnam Veera , Smith Milton G. , Das Salil K.
Published: February 2009

2‐Choloroethyl Ethyl Sulfide (CEES) exposure causes inflammatory lung diseases, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and pulmonary fibrosis. This may be associated with oxidative stress, which has been implicated in the desensitization of beta‐adrenergic receptors (β‐ARs). The objective of this study was to investigate whether lung injury induced by intratracheal CEES exposure (2 mg/kg body weight) causes desensitization of β‐ARs. The animals were sacrificed after 7 days and lungs were removed. Lung injury was established by measuring the leakage of iodinated‐bovine serum albumin ([125I]‐BSA) into lung tissue. Receptor‐binding characteristics were determined by measuring the binding of [3H] dihydroalprenolol ([3H] DHA) (0.5–24 nM) to membrane fraction in the presence and absence ofDLDL‐propranolol (10 μ M). Both high‐ and low‐affinity β‐ARs were identified in the lung. Binding capacity was significantly higher in low‐affinity site in both control and experimental groups. Although CEES exposure did not changeKDandBmaxat the high‐affinity site, it significantly decreased bothKDandBmaxat low affinity sites. A 20% decrease in β2‐AR mRNA level and a 60% decrease in membrane protein levels were observed in the experimental group. Furthermore, there was significantly less stimulation of adenylate cyclase activity by both cholera toxin and isoproterenol in the experimental group in comparison to the control group. Treatment of lungs with 3‐isobutyl‐1‐methylxanthine (IBMX), an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase (PDE) could not abolish the difference between the control group and the experimental group on the stimulation of the adenylate cyclase activity. Thus, our study indicates that CEES‐induced lung injury is associated with desensitization of β2‐AR. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 23:59–70, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.20265
Intracellular localization of porcine single‐strand binding protein 2
Authors: Kato Yukio , Kato Takako , Ono Tetsuo , Susa Takao , Kitahara Kousuke , Matsumoto Kaori
Published: February 2009

We have previously cloned cofactor CLIM2 (Ldb1/NL1) as a binding protein for LIM homeodomain transcription factor and now seek a protein interacting with CLIM2. Ultimately, SSBP2 was cloned as CLIM2 binding protein from the adult porcine pituitary cDNA library by the Yeast Two‐Hybrid System. The amino acid sequence of porcine SSBP2 shows a high identity (99%) with those of other mammalian species, man, and mouse. Using fluorescence protein‐fused SSBP2 and its deletion mutants, we observed that SSBP2 overexpressed in CHO cells predominantly localizes in mitochondria. Expression of mutant SSBP2s demonstrated that the first 241 amino acid residues are responsive for the mitochondrial localization. When CLIM2 vector was co‐transfected, SSBP2 changed its location to nuclei. The similar translocation was also observed when CLIM2 vector was transfected 17 h after the transfection of SSBP2 vector. The first 120 residues of SSBP2 are responsible for the nuclear localization by guidance with CLIM2. RT‐PCR demonstrated that SSBP2 was expressed in the porcine pituitary from fetal 40 days to postnatal 230 days in both genders and in the variety of pituitary and non‐pituitary tumor cell lines, indicating that SSBP2 is present ubiquitously and plays a universal function during fetal and postnatal pituitary development. J. Cell. Biochem. 106: 912–919, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cancer metastasis directly eradicated by targeted therapy with a modified Salmonella typhimurium
Authors: Hayashi Katsuhiro , Zhao Ming , Yamauchi Kensuke , Yamamoto Norio , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Tomita Katsuro , Hoffman Robert M.
Published: February 2009

Cancer metastasis is the life‐threatening aspect of cancer and is usually resistant to standard treatment. We report here a targeted therapy strategy for cancer metastasis using a genetically‐modified strain of Salmonella typhimurium. The genetically‐modified strain of S. typhimurium is auxotrophic for the amino acids arginine and leucine. These mutations preclude growth in normal tissue but do not reduce bacterial virulence in cancer cells. The tumor‐targeting strain of S. typhimurium, termed A1‐R, and expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP), was administered to both axillary lymph and popliteal lymph node metastasis of human pancreatic cancer and fibrosarcoma, respectively, as well as lung metastasis of the fibrosarcoma in nude mice. The bacteria were delivered via a lymphatic channel to target the lymph node metastases and systemically via the tail vein to target the lung metastasis. The cancer cells expressed red fluorescent protein (RFP) in the cytoplasm and GFP in the nucleus linked to histone H2B, enabling color‐coded real‐time imaging of the bacteria targeting the metastatic tumors. After 7–21 days of treatment, the metastases were eradicated without the need of chemotherapy or any other treatment. No adverse effects were observed. This new strategy demonstrates the clinical potential of targeting and curing cancer metastasis with engineered bacteria without the need of toxic chemotherapy. J. Cell. Biochem. 106: 992–998, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Osmotic responses of Dunaliella to the changes of salinity
Authors: Chen Hui , Jiang Jian‐Guo
Published: February 2009

Some species in genus Dunaliella are unique in their remarkable abilities to accumulate large numbers of β‐carotene and thrive in media containing a wide range of NaCl concentrations ranging from about 0.05 M to saturation (around 5.5 M). The algae contain no rigid polysaccharide cell wall and thus have been found to be able to rapidly change their volume and shape in response to changes in the extracellular hypo‐ or hyper‐osmotic pressure. In osmotic adjustment, the osmoregulatory response of Dunaliella functions to maintain osmotic balance at high salinities by synthesis and varying the intracellular concentration of glycerol. In this review, we describe the osmotic response process of Dunaliella under salinity stress, including the changes of cell volume, intracellular ions concentration, intracellular glycerol concentration, and the expression of some salt‐induced genes. Some specific proteins and enzymes can be induced by different salinities in osmotic response process. In addition, we introduce the exogenous expression of salt‐related genes of Dunaliella salina in plants and microorganisms for the purpose of confirming the functions of related genes, proteins, and enzymes. The aim of this review is to emphasize the importance of the studies on the mechanisms of osmotic adjustments of Dunaliella in order to develop its unique osmotic characteristics. It is prospected that future research should pay attention to the specific signal transduction pathway and the mechanism of osmoregulation, and to improve the salt tolerance of higher plants by using salt‐tolerant genes of Dunaliella. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 251–258, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adenovirus‐mediated hPNPaseold‐35 gene transfer as a therapeutic strategy for neuroblastoma
Authors: Van Maerken Tom , Sarkar Devanand , Speleman Frank , Dent Paul , Weiss William A. , Fisher Paul B.
Published: February 2009

Current treatment options for neuroblastoma fail to eradicate the disease in the majority of high‐risk patients, clearly mandating development of innovative therapeutic strategies. Gene therapy represents a promising approach for reversing the neoplastic phenotype or driving tumor cells to self‐destruction. We presently studied the effects of adenovirus‐mediated gene transfer of human polynucleotide phosphorylase (hPNPaseold‐35), a 3′,5′‐exoribonuclease with growth‐inhibitory properties, in neuroblastoma cells. Transgene expression was driven by either the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter or by a tumor‐selective promoter derived from progression elevated gene‐3 (PEG‐3). Our data demonstrate that efficient adenoviral transduction of neuroblastoma cells and robust transgene expression are feasible objectives, that the PEG‐3 promoter is capable of selectively targeting gene expression in the majority of neuroblastoma cells, and that hPNPaseold‐35 induces profound growth suppression and apoptosis of malignant neuroblastoma cells, while exerting limited effects on normal neural crest‐derived melanocytes. These findings support future applications of hPNPaseold‐35 for targeted gene‐based therapy of neuroblastoma and suggest that combination with the PEG‐3 promoter holds promise for creating a potent and selective neuroblastoma therapeutic. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 707–715, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigation on human adrenocortical cell response to adenovirus and adenoviral vector infection
Authors: Matkovic Urska , Pacenti Monia , Trevisan Marta , Palù Giorgio , Barzon Luisa
Published: February 2009

After systemic administration, adenoviral vectors (AdVs) are sequestered in the liver and adrenal glands. Adenoviral vector transduction has been shown to cause cytopathic effects on human hepatocytes and to induce an inflammatory response, whereas the effect of AdVs on human adrenocortical cells has never been investigated. In this study, human adrenocortical carcinoma cell lines and primary cell cultures were used to assess the effects of wild‐type adenovirus (Ad5WT) and E1/E3‐deleted AdVs on cell proliferation and steroidogenesis. Ad5WT could efficiently replicate in adrenocortical cells, leading to S phase induction, followed by cell death, whereas high titer AdVs transduction had only mild effects on adrenocortical cell proliferation, with accumulation of cells in G2/M. Both AdVs and Ad5WT induced expression of inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐α, but, most importantly, they led to a marked and dose‐dependent increase of cortisol and other steroid hormone production and consistently modulated expression of key steroidogenic enzymes and regulators of steroidogenesis. This effect, which was already apparent at 6 h post‐infection, probably represented a response to adenoviral entry and/or early phases of infection. The result of this study contribute to the understanding of host response to adenoviral vector administration. J. Cell. Physiol. 220: 45–57, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Daily and seasonal changes in the stickiness of viscous capture threads in Argiope aurantia and Argiope trifasciata orb‐webs
Authors: Opell Brent D. , Lipkey Genine K. , Hendricks Mary L. , Vito Stephen T.
Published: February 2009

The spirally arrayed viscous capture threads of spider orb‐webs are formed of small, regularly spaced adhesive droplets and are responsible for retaining insects that strike the web, giving a spider more time to subdue these prey. These sticky threads are deposited from the perimeter of the web inward. We tested the hypothesis that depletion of silk reserves during web construction affects the properties of capture threads spun by adult female Argiope aurantia and Argiope trifasciata. In both species the droplet volume (DV) per millimeter thread length was the same in outer and inner capture threads and in early and late season webs. However, the outer threads of both species were stickier than their inner threads and, consequently, had a greater stickiness per DV. Thus, dwindling silk reserves during web construction appeared to reduce the stickiness of both species' threads by changing the composition rather than the volume of their viscous droplets. In A. trifasciata, which we studied later in the fall than A. aurantia, there were also seasonal declines in both thread stickiness and stickiness per DV, which may result from either the depletion of silk reserves or the reallocation of these resources. Early season webs of A. trifasciata also had greater stickiness per square centimeter of capture area than late season webs, better equipping these early webs to retain insects. J. Exp. Zool. 311A:217–225, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New imidazole derivatives of 2(3H)‐benzazolones as potential antifungal agents
Authors: Petrov Ognyan , Gerova Mariana , Petrova Katya , Ivanova Yordanka
Published: February 2009

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A series of new imidazole derivatives containing 2(3H)‐benzoxazolone or 2(3H)‐benzothiazolone ring were synthesized as analogues of the antifungal drug bifonazole. All compounds were tested in vitro against Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida krusli. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
Synthesis of 7,8‐dihydroxy‐3‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐2H‐chromen‐2‐one derivatives of crown ethers
Authors: Gündüz Cihan , Bulut Mustafa
Published: February 2009

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The novel 1‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(2,3,4‐trimethoxyphenyl)acrylonitrile was prepared from the condensation of the mixture of 2,3,4‐trimethoxybenzaldehyde and 3,4‐dimethoxyphenylacetonitrile in ethanol at 70°C with 20% aqueous sodium hydroxide solution. Cyclization and demethylation of the acrylacetonitrile was performed using pyridine hydrochloride. The obtained 7,8‐dihydroxy‐3‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐2H‐chromen‐2‐one was reacted with the poly(ethylene glycol) ditosylates in CH3CN/alkali carbonate to afford bis‐[12]crown‐4, ‐[15]crown‐5, and ‐[18]crown‐6 chromenones. The chromatographically purified novel chromenone crown ethers were identified by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
A simple three‐component condensation: Highly efficient microwave‐assisted one‐pot synthesis of polyfunctional pyridine derivatives
Authors: Tu Shujiang , Zhou Dianxiang , Cao Longji , Li Chunmei , Shao Qingqing
Published: February 2009

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A simple facile one‐step microwave‐enhanced synthesis of methyl 4‐substituted‐6‐amino‐5‐cyano‐2‐methylpyridine‐3‐carboxylate derivatives via a three‐component reaction of aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile, and methyl 3‐aminobut‐2‐enoate has been developed. It is an efficient and promising synthetic strategy to build the polyfunctional pyridine skeleton. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009)
The implications of benefit package design: the impact on poor Thai households of excluding renal replacement therapy
Authors: Prakongsai Phusit , Palmer Natasha , Uay‐Trakul Preecha , Tangcharoensathien Viroj , Mills Anne
Published: February 2009

When the Thai universal coverage (UC) scheme was established, the government decided to exclude renal replacement therapy (RRT) for end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients from the benefit package, though RRT was included in two other public health insurance schemes. Access to RRT for UC members thus depended on the ability to pay. This study assessed the economic impact of RRT costs on Thai households of different economic status focusing on three issues: (1) the use of RRT; (2) the financial burden of health care payments and (3) household strategies for coping with RRT costs. In‐depth case studies of 20 households covered by the UC scheme and having ESRD patients were undertaken using three qualitative data collection approaches: semi‐structured and in‐depth interviews, and direct observation. Poorer and richer households in urban and rural areas of Nakorn Ratchasima province, a large province in the Northeast where more than 20 per cent of households live below the national poverty line, were purposively selected. The study was conducted in early 2005 and households were visited every 2 weeks for 3 months. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using a thematic approach. The decision to exclude RRT from the UC benefit package created financial barriers to RRT and had a substantial economic impact on poorer ESRD patients. Inadequate dialyses and erythropoietin injections to correct anaemia appeared to be a major cause of death for poorer patients. Household expenditure on RRT took 25–68 per cent of total income or 31–52 per cent of total expenditure, which meant all poorer patients faced catastrophic health spending. In contrast, richer patients had adequate dialyses, resulting in a higher survival rate and quality of life than poorer counterparts. Various coping strategies were employed by poorer patients; these included reducing frequency of dialyses, reducing food consumption, using public transportation to hospitals and taking high interest loans. The RRT cost burden not only impacted patients but also their household members and relatives who provided financial support. Given the two UC policy objectives of equitable access to health care and financial risk protection, the catastrophic impact of RRT costs on poorer households questions the appropriateness of excluding RRT from the UC benefit package. This issue requires further serious attention by the Thai government. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Do palatal implants really reduce snoring in long‐term follow‐up?
Authors: Saylam Guleser , Korkmaz Hakan , Firat Hikmet , Tatar Emel Çadalli , Özdek Ali , Ardic Sadik
Published: February 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate the efficacy of palatal implants in primary snoring patients and to determine the long‐term results.

Study design:

Retrospective clinical trial.

Methods:

Twenty‐one adult primary snorers treated with palatal implants were reviewed. Apnea‐hypopnea indexes of all the patients were <5. Patients and their partners were evaluated together at 0, 30, and 90 days and at 6, 12, and 18 months. The partners' visual analog scale (VAS) for snoring intensity and the patients' overall satisfaction, along with the Epworth sleepiness scale, were used for assessments.

Results:

The mean VAS score was reduced from 9.1 ± 1.1 to 5.4 ± 2.7 at the 3rd month, and to 5.1 ± 3.15 at the 1st year (P < .05). At the 6th month, VAS scores of snoring intensity were reduced >50% in 13 of the patients (61.9%) and 52.3% (n = 11) at the 12th month. Eleven successfully treated patients and their partners were revisited at the 18th month, and both recommended the implant to others. The patient satisfaction rate was over 80% in 14 of the patients after 1 year. The mean ESS scores decreased from 7.8 to 5.5 after 180 days (P < .05). There was a strong correlation between low oxygen desaturation index and treatment success (coefficient, 0.779; P < .001). There were no postprocedure complications, such as bleeding, infection, and extrusion.

Conclusions:

In primary snoring patients, pillar implant is a safe and easy single procedure. At the 18th‐month follow‐up, partners' VAS score improvement was 53%, along with 80% patient satisfaction.
Synthesis and Self‐Assembly of Novel Amphiphilic Six‐Armed Star Copolymers TP[PDMAEMA‐b‐PSt]6
Authors: Tao Kang , Wang Yanxue , Wang Wenda , Lu Dairen , Wang Yun , Bai Ruke
Published: February 2009

A triphenylene (TP)‐based hexafunctional initiator was prepared and used in successive ATRP of DMAEMA and St. Well‐defined six‐armed star block copolymers TP[PDMAEMA‐b‐PSt]6 bearing hydrophilic backbones inside and hydrophobic blocks outside were successfully synthesized. The self‐assembly behaviors of the novel amphiphilic copolymer were further investigated. Co‐existing spherical and bowl‐shaped aggregates were observed from their neutral aqueous solution, while large spherical structures with different dimensions were obtained from their diluted HCl and CF3COOH aqueous solution, respectively. Dynamic light scattering in different aqueous solutions were conducted to give further confirmation. The possible mechanism of the morphology formation was proposed.

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Investigation of Oxygen Permeation through Composites of PMMA and Surface‐Modified ZnO Nanoparticles
Authors: Hess Sandra , Demir Mustafa M. , Yakutkin Vladimir , Baluschev Stanislav , Wegner Gerhard
Published: February 2009

Oxygen permeabilities of nanocomposite films consisting of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and different amounts of spherical zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were determined to investigate the barrier effect of this material with respect to particle content. A method was applied which is based on quenching of an excited phosphorescent dye by oxygen. Possible effects of the nanoparticles on the response of the dye molecules were investigated and were ruled out.

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Factors predicting improvement in primary generalized dystonia treated by pallidal deep brain stimulation
Authors: Vasques Xavier , Cif Laura , Gonzalez Victoria , Nicholson Claire , Coubes Philippe
Published: February 2009

Despite the beneficial effects of Globus Pallidus internus (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS) in patients with primary generalized dystonia (PGD), the degree of improvement varies from one patient to another. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of clinical, anatomical (volume of the GPi), and electrical variables on the postoperative Burke‐Fahn‐Marsden Dystonia rating scale (BFMDRS) motor score to identify which factors may be predictive of the degree of improvement. We reviewed retrospectively the clinical records of 40 steady‐state patients with PGD who had been treated by bilateral GPi lead implantation. The follow‐up period was 2 to 8 years. The correlation between the electrical parameters (voltage, impedance, and current) and the clinical outcome was studied. An analysis of covariance was performed to identify factors predictive of the magnitude of improvement. The most influential factors according to the model are as follows: the preoperative BFMDRS score (P < 0.0001); age at surgery (P < 0.0001); the right GPi volume (P = 0.002); the left stimulated GPi volume (P = 0.005). No significant correlation was found between the electrical parameters used and the mean motor scores in steady state. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Association of restless legs syndrome with nocturnal eating: A case‐control study
Authors: Provini Federica , Antelmi Elena , Vignatelli Luca , Zaniboni Anna , Naldi Giulia , Calandra‐Buonaura Giovanna , Vetrugno Roberto , Plazzi Giuseppe , Montagna Pasquale
Published: February 2009

We investigated the prevalence of nocturnal eating (sleep‐related eating disorder—SRED or night‐eating syndrome—NES) in patients with restless legs syndrome (RLS). One hundred RLS patients living in Emilia‐Romagna (Northern Italy) and 100 matched controls randomly selected from the general population received two telephone interviews, and were investigated for socio‐demographic characteristics, general health status, and presence of nocturnaleating. Additionally, subjects underwent interviews for psychopathological traits [by means of the Eating Disorder Inventory‐2 (EDI‐2), the Maudsley Obsessive‐Compulsive Inventory (MOCI), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)], excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), and subjective sleep quality. Compared with controls, RLS patients had more frequently pathological MOCI scores (24% versus 10%, P = 0.03), used significantly more drugs for concomitant diseases and had more nocturnal sleep impairment and EDS. SRED was more prevalent in RLS patients than controls (SRED: 33% versus 1%, P < 0.001). Medication use and pathological MOCI scores were more prevalent in RLS patients with SRED than among RLS patients without SRED. Use of dopaminergic or hypnotic drugs for RLS was not correlated with the presence of SRED. We demonstrate an association between RLS and SRED. Prospective studies are needed to establish the mechanisms underlying such association and whether it is causal. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
TheTOR1Apolymorphism rs1182 and the risk of spread in primary blepharospasm
Authors: Defazio Giovanni , Matarin Mar , Peckham Elizabeth L. , Martino Davide , Valente Enza M. , Singleton Andrew , Crawley Anthony , Aniello Maria Stella , Brancati Francesco , Abbruzzese Giovanni , Girlanda Paolo , Livrea Paolo , Hallett Mark , Berardelli Alfredo
Published: February 2009

We studied the influence of the rs1182 polymorphism of theTOR1Agene on the risk of dystonia spread in two representative cohorts of patients presenting with primary blepharospasm (BSP), one from Italy and the other from the United States of America. The relationship between rs1182 polymorphism and spread was estimated by Kaplan‐Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazard regression models adjusted by age and sex, age of BSP onset. In both series, patients carrying the T allele (G/T or T/T) in the rs1182 polymorphism were more likely to have dystonia spread as compared with the homozygous carriers of the common G allele. The comparable findings obtained in two independent cohorts support a genetic contribution to BSP spread. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Identification of hydrogen peroxide as a major cytotoxic component in Maillard reaction mixtures and coffee
Authors: Hegele Jörg , Münch Gerald , Pischetsrieder Monika
Published: February 2009

The cytotoxic activity of Maillard reaction products and coffee was studied using the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and the neutral red uptake (NRU) assay. Equimolar mixtures of sugars and lysine were heated at 120°C and used to stimulate bovine aorta endothelial cells for 24 h. The cytotoxic activity increased with increase in educt concentration and heating time. Mixtures containing ribose were most active, followed by lactose and glucose. Hydrogen peroxide, which was present in the Maillard mixtures in concentrations between 7 and 87 μM, was identified as one of their major cytotoxic components. H2O2‐concentrations increased further up to 130 μM under cell culture conditions. Filter coffee, espresso, and green coffee extract reduced cell viability significantly to 10, 19, and 83% of PBS‐treated control. The effect was largely attenuated by the addition of catalase. Nil, 33, and 41 μM H2O2 was measured in green coffee extract, filter coffee, and espresso, respectively, increasing to 13, 369, and 333 μM during cell culture conditions. No additional H2O2 formation was detected when coffee was incubated for up to 5 h without further treatment. In conclusion, hydrogen peroxide is a major product in Maillard mixtures and coffee inducing cell death in vitro.
On time integration in the XFEM
Authors: Fries Thomas‐Peter , Zilian Andreas
Published: February 2009

The extended finite element method (XFEM) is often used in applications that involve moving interfaces. Examples are the propagation of cracks or the movement of interfaces in two‐phase problems. This work focuses on time integration in the XFEM. The performance of the discontinuous Galerkin method in time (space–time finite elements (FEs)) and time‐stepping schemes are analyzed by convergence studies for different model problems. It is shown that space–time FE achieve optimal convergence rates. Special care is required for time stepping in the XFEM due to the time dependence of the enrichment functions. In each time step, the enrichment functions have to be evaluated at different time levels. This has important consequences in the quadrature used for the integration of the weak form. A time‐stepping scheme that leads to optimal or only slightly sub‐optimal convergence rates is systematically constructed in this work. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐pineal supratentorial primitive neuro‐ectodermal tumors (sPNET) in teenagers and young adults: Time to reconsider cisplatin based chemotherapy after cranio‐spinal irradiation?
Authors: Biswas Swethajit , Burke Amos , Cherian Sheen , Williams Denise , Nicholson James , Horan Gail , Jefferies Sarah , Williams Michael , Earl Helena M. , Burnet Neil G. , Hatcher Helen
Published: February 2009

Background

Supratentorial PNET (sPNET) are rare CNS tumors of embryonal origin arising in children and adults. The treatment of sPNET for all age groups at our cancer center has been based on the management of medulloblastoma (MB), involving neurosurgical debulking followed by cranio‐spinal irradiation (CSI) and systemic chemotherapy.

Methods

Medical records were reviewed to gather demographic and clinical data about all embryonal CNS tumors in children and adults from 2001 to 2007. Tumor pathology, clinical management and survival data were also assessed, particularly as regards those patients who received the Packer chemotherapy regimen for either sPNET or MB.

Results

Eleven patients (five children and six adults) were identified with non‐pineal sPNET, three children with pineal sPNET, and 19 patients (18 children and 1 adult) with MB. There was no difference in overall survival (OS) rates between pediatric and adult sPNET. When all sPNET were compared to all MB, 5‐year OS was 14% versus 73%, respectively, but was only 9% for non‐pineal sPNET. When only considering those patients treated with the Packer chemotherapy regimen, the 5‐year OS was 12% for sPNET versus 79% for MB.

Conclusion

This retrospective study demonstrates that non‐pineal sPNET are clinically distinct from MB and are resistant to the Packer chemotherapy regimen. We suggest that it is time to reconsider the use of this regimen in teenage and young adult non‐pineal sPNET and to investigate the utility of alternative approaches. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:796–803. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Children and traumatic events: Therapeutic techniques for psychologists working in the schools
Authors: Little Steven G. , Akin‐Little Angeleque , Gutierrez Gabriel
Published: February 2009

It is clear that exposure to traumatic events is not uncommon in childhood and adolescence, and psychologists working in schools should have some training in meeting the needs of this segment of the population. One intervention that has been empirically supported in the trauma field is Trauma‐Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF‐CBT). This article seeks to provide an overview of research on the efficacy of TF‐CBT with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma with a primary focus on psychologists working in the schools. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect on structural relaxation of the poly(methyl‐methacrylate) copolymers chain flexibility
Authors: Della Sciucca Stefania , Spagnoli Gloria , Penco Maurizio , Battiato Salvatore , Samperi Filippo , Mendichi Raniero
Published: February 2009

The structural relaxation of poly(methyl‐methacrylate) (PMMA)‐based copolymers with different chain flexibility has been studied by DSC with the classical procedure of the isothermal and dynamical approach. Modified PMMA with different chain flexibility have been prepared by free radical polymerization in solution using a mixture of monomers containing 10 mol % of alkyl methacrylate (i.e., ethyl, buthyl, and hexyl methacrylate). The molecular characteristics of all the prepared copolymers have been performed by a multiangle laser light scattering (MALS) photometer on‐line to a size exclusion chromatography (SEC) system (SEC‐MALS) after and before the thermal treatments, NMR (1H and 13C) and MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. A comparison of the apparent relaxation rate (RH) was appraised from the enthalpy loss by annealing the different samples at the same level of undercooling (Ta = Tg − 18 °C). It was found an increase of RH increasing the chain flexibility in the copolymers. Dynamical tests, performed at different cooling rates, have been used to estimate the apparent activation energy of the relaxation process. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 596–607, 2009
Kinetics study on melt compounding of carbon nanotube/polypropylene nanocomposites
Authors: Wu Defeng , Sun Yurong , Zhang Ming
Published: February 2009

The multiwalled carbon nanotubes/polypropylene nanocomposites (PP/CNTs) were prepared by melt mixing using maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (mPP) as the compatibilizer. The effect of mPP on dispersion of CNTs was then studied using the tool of rheology, aiming at relating the viscoelastic behaviors to the mesoscopic structure of CNTs. To further explore the kinetics of hybrid formation, a multilayered sample with alternatively superposed neat mPP and binary PP/CNTs microcomposites (without addition of mPP) sheets was prepared and experienced dynamic annealing in the small amplitude oscillatory shear flow. The results show that melt blending CNTs with PP can only yield the composites with microscale dispersion of CNTs, while adding mPP promotes nanoscale dispersion of CNTs as smaller bundles or even as individual nanotubes, reducing percolation threshold as a result. However, the values of apparent diffusivities of the composites are in same order with that of self‐diffusion coefficients of the neat PP, indicating that the presence of detached CNTs nearly does not inhibit PP chain motion. Hence, the activation energy of hybrid formation is close to the self‐diffusion of PP. This also indicates that although addition of mPP can improve the compatibility between CNTs and PP thermodynamically, those dynamic factors, such as shear flow, however, may be the dominant role on hybrid formation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 608–618, 2009
Interfacial properties of compressible polymer solutions
Authors: Ghiass Majid , Rey Alejandro D.
Published: February 2009

A chemomechanical model for the interfacial concentration and density in compressible polymer solutions is formulated using variational principles. The nonlinear model with boundary conditions obtained from phase equilibrium calculations gives the coupled concentration and density profiles. The couplings between chemical and mechanical balances are identified and efficient ways to calculate the interfacial structure is identified. A specific model appropriate to high‐pressure processing of the polyolefins is developed using the modified Sanchez Lacombe equation of state. Bakker's formula for the interfacial tension is adapted to compressible polymer solutions. The structure and tension of a flat interface is characterized using the developed model and material properties of three molecular weight hydrogenated polybutadiene; the main variables of interest were the pressure, polymer molecular weight, and temperature. The relation between the pressure profile across the interface and the interfacial tension is characterized. Scaling power laws for interfacial tension and interfacial thickness as a function of pressure are obtained and contrasted with the corresponding laws observed and predicted for incompressible polymer solutions. It is found that the modified Sanchez Lacombe‐based power law prediction predictions for compressible solutions in terms of pressure quenches are similar to those from those obtained by the Flory‐Huggins incompressible model for temperature quenches. The present results provide the basis for the future study of the kinetics of pressure‐induced phase separation in compressible polymer solutions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 640–654, 2009
Design and Testing of a Semi‐Continuous Measurement System for Ionic Species in PM2.5
Authors: Hong Sang bum , Kim Dae seong , Ryu Sung yun , Lee Ken W. , Kim Young jun , Lee Jai hoon
Published: February 2009

A semi‐continuous measurement system was constructed to investigate ionic species of fine particles less than 2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5) in ambient air and at ca. 30 min time resolution. An intercomparison study was also performed with a typical integrated measurement technique (12‐h filter measurements) at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju, Korea. The system was composed of three main parts, i.e., a PM2.5 cyclone inlet connected to annular coating denuders, particle collection components and an ion chromatograph. Particle collection efficiencies in the range of 0.05 – 0.15 μm and 0.15 – 2.5 μm were 80 – 90 % and ca. 100 %, respectively, under the following conditions: distilled water (DW) flow rates, injected into the rectangular coil type air/liquid separator, over 0.23 mL min–1, with aerosol sampling and DW flow rates for steam generation of 2 L min–1 and 0.17 mL min–1, respectively. The limits of detection (3s of the blank value) of the system under the field experimental conditions were as follows: Na+ and NH4+: 0.20 μg m–3, K+: 0.25 μg m–3, Ca2+ and Mg2+: 0.50 μg m–3, and Cl–, NO3– and SO42–: 0.10 μg m–3. The intercomparison studies showed that the results of the semi‐continuous measurement system generally correlated with those of the 12‐h filter measurements for NH4+, SO42–, NO3– and Cl– (r = 0.82 ∼ 0.96, P < 0.0001, 95 % confidence limit). The correlation was best for SO42– (r = 0.96), but was relatively low for NO3– (r = 0.87) and Cl– (r = 0.82). The results indicated that the correlations between the two methods were mainly dependent upon the thermodynamic stability of the species in the fine particles and the sampling artifacts associated with the filter method.
Thermal analysis of buried heterostructure quantum cascade lasers for long‐wavelength infrared emission using 2D anisotropic heat‐dissipation model
Authors: Lee H. K. , Chung K. S. , Yu J. S. , Razeghi M.
Published: February 2009

We have theoretically investigated and compared the thermal characteristics of γ ∼ 10.6 μm InGaAs/InAlAs/InP buried heterostructure (BH) quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) with different heat‐sinking configurations by a steady‐state heat‐transfer analysis. The heat‐source densities were obtained from laser threshold power densities measured experimentally under room‐temperature continuous‐wave mode. The two‐dimensional anisotropic heat‐dissipation model was used to calculate the temperature distribution, heat flux, and thermal conductance (Gth) inside the device. For good thermal characteristics, the QCLs in the long‐wavelength infrared region require the relatively narrow BH structure in combination with epilayer‐down bonding due to thick active core/cladding layers and high insulator losses. The single‐ridge BH structure results in slightly higher thermal conductance by ∼2–4% than the double‐channel (DC) ridge BH structure. For W = 12 μm with 5 μm thick electroplated Au, the single‐ridge BH laser with epilayer‐down bonding exhibited the highest Gth value of 201.9 W/K cm2, i.e. increased by nearly 36% with respect to the epilayer‐up bonded DC ridge waveguide laser. This value is improved by ∼50% and ∼62% with respect to the single‐ridge BH laser and DC ridge waveguide laser with W = 20 μm in the epilayer‐up bonding scheme, respectively. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Preface: Phys. Status Solidi A 206/2
Authors: Allerman Andrew , Dupuis Russell D. , Khan Asif , Ponce Fernando A.
Published: February 2009

The Seventh International Symposium on Semiconductor Light Emitting Devices (ISSLED 2008) was held in Phoenix, Arizona, on the week of 27 April to 2 May 2008. This Symposium is a new edition of the International Symposium on Blue Laser and Light Emitting Diodes (ISBLLED) series which has been held biannually to provide a platform for scientists and engineers to discuss progress and future trends in the rapidly advancing wide band gap semiconductor science and technologies and their applications into visible and ultraviolet light emitting diodes and diode lasers.

The first symposium in the series was organized by Prof. Akihiko Yoshikawa and was held in Chiba, Japan, in 1996. The following symposia were held in Chiba, Japan, in 1998; Berlin, Germany, in 2000; Cordoba, Spain, in 2002; Geongju, Korea, in 2004; and more recently in Montpellier, France, in 2006.

The participants were 33 from Asia (16 from Japan), 19 from Europe, and 66 from North America. The ISSLED 2008 scientific program included a total of 14 invited talks and 63 contributed talks.

This symposium covered materials and their devices based on GaN, ZnSe, and ZnO semiconductors. The topics included materials growth and characterization, optoelectronic properties, device design and fabrication, white light emitting diodes, ultraviolet emitters and detectors, photonics, device performance and reliability, novel optoelectronic devices and applications, spintronics, and biological applications.

The next meeting in this series was proposed, and accepted by the International Advisory Committee, to be held in China, in May 2010, to be organized by Prof. Guoyi Zhang of Peking University (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Bonding properties and bulk modulus of M4AlC3 (M = V, Nb, and Ta) studied by first‐principles calculations
Authors: Du Y. L. , Sun Z. M. , Hashimoto H. , Tian W. B.
Published: February 2009

We have investigated the bonding properties and bulk modulus of M4AlC3 (M = V, Nb, and Ta) by first‐principles calculations. The calculated cohesive energy indicates the enhancement of bond strength of M4AlC3 as V is replaced by Nb and subsequently by Ta. This conclusion was further confirmed by the analysis of density of states of M4AlC3. The bulk modulus of M4AlC3 is found to be proportional to its corresponding binary compound MC. The hardness of M4AlC3 was discussed based on the relationship between the bulk modulus and hardness. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Light‐emitting diode applications of colloidal CdSe/ZnS quantum dots embedded in TiO2–δ thin film
Authors: Kang Seung‐Hee , Huh Hoon‐Hoe , Son Kee‐Chul , Lee Chang‐Soo , Kim Kyung‐Hyun , Huh Chul , Kim Eui‐Tae
Published: February 2009

We report the light‐emitting diode (LED) characteristics of colloidal core‐shell CdSe/ZnS nanocrystal quantum dots (QDs) embedded in TiO2–δ thin films on Si substrate. High‐quality CdSe/ZnS QDs were synthesized via a pyrolysis in the range of 220–280 °C. The QDs were embedded in TiO2–δ thin film at 200 °C by plasma‐enhanced metallorganic chemical vapor deposition. The diode structure of n‐TiO2–δ /QDs/p‐Si showed electroluminescence characteristics, indicating the possibility of LED applications of colloidal CdSe/ZnS nanocrystal QDs embedded in oxide films on large‐area Si wafer. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Magneto photoluminescence in droplet epitaxial GaAs quantum rings
Authors: Kuroda Takashi , Belhadj Thomas , Mano Takaaki , Urbaszek Bernhard , Amand Thierry , Marie Xavier , Sanguinetti Stefano , Sakoda Kazuaki , Koguchi Nobuyuki
Published: February 2009

Making use of a novel droplet epitaxy technique, we realize GaAs ring‐shaped quantum dots of high circular symmetry. Here, we report on photoluminescence (PL) study of single isolated quantum rings in magnetic field up to 10 T. Polarized PL signals show a significant reduction in their intensity at >6 T. Possible origins accounting for this observation are discussed. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Point defect content and optical transitions in bulk aluminum nitride crystals
Authors: Bickermann Matthias , Epelbaum Boris M. , Filip Octavian , Heimann Paul , Nagata Shunro , Winnacker Albrecht
Published: February 2009

Different zones of nominally undoped AlN bulk single crystals are investigated using optical absorption and cathodoluminescence. Incorporation of impurities and formation of intrinsic defects during growth strongly depend on the facet which forms the zone. Following first principles calculations and earlier observations on AlN epilayers, we assign the endpoints of the observed optical transitions to ionization levels of oxygen, VAl2–/3–, and (VAl–ON)–/2–. According to the strength of the respective optical transitions in different zones, we find that oxygen contamination increases in the order Al‐polar (0001), rhombohedral {10$ \bar 1 $2} and prismatic {10$ \bar 1 $0}, N‐polar (000$ \bar 1 $). We conclude that the low UV transmittance typically observed in bulk AlN is caused by the formation of VAl and (VAl–ON). These deep levels form in the presence of oxygen, which is the major contaminant in bulk AlN. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Depth profiling of optical and vibrational properties in GaN/AlN quantum dot superlattices
Authors: Cros A. , Fresneda J. , Budagosky J. A. , Amstatt B. , Daudin B.
Published: February 2009

Spatially resolved confocal μ‐Raman and μ‐photoluminescence experiments were performed to analyze the vibrational and optical properties of GaN/AlN quantum dots as a function of depth. Two approaches have been followed. First, spectra were taken by defocusing the microscope objective at various depths on the sample surface. In a second set of experiments a bevel at an angle of 20° with respect to the surface normal was prepared by mechanical polishing of the surface, and spectra were taken across the bevel. The E2h vibrational modes ascribed to the GaN QDs and the AlN spacer redshift towards the surface, indicating the progressive relaxation of the QDs and a considerable increase of the tensile strain in the AlN spacer. The photoluminescence is found to blueshift and narrow towards the surface. This behaviour is ascribed to the decrease of the QD internal electric field as a consequence of the relaxation. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Magnetic properties of microwires with amorphous structure after thermo mechanical treatment
Authors: Larin V. S. , Zhukov A.
Published: February 2009

Fe74B13Si11C2 microwires with positive magnetostriction constant obtained by the Taylor–Ulitovski method have been subjected to a thermal treatment under stress. Drastic changes of the initially rectangular hysteresis loop into an inclined loop with large anisotropy field in stress annealed samples have been observed and analyzed. Under application of tensile stress the opposite effect has been observed on inclined loop converted into a rectangular loop in several stages. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Interacting antiferromagnetic and ferroelectric domain structures of multiferroics
Authors: Gareeva Z. V. , Zvezdin A. K.
Published: February 2009

The correlation between antiferromagnetic and ferroelectric domain structures in multiferroics has been studied. The role of magnetoelectric interactions in the formation of antiferromagnetic domain structure has been analysed. It has been shown that the major physical mechanism binding antiferromagnetic domains to ferroelectric ones is the inhomogeneous flexomagnetoelectric interaction of the Pz [(l ∇)lz – lz(∇l)] type. The dependences illustrating the rearrangement of antiferromagnetic domain patterns together with changes of the ferroelectric domain thickness have been analyzed. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)