bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atomic force microscopy study of montmorillonite dissolution under highly alkaline conditions
Authors: Yokoyama Shingo , Kuroda Masato , Sato Tsutomu
Published: April 2005

Montmorillonite dissolution under highly alkaline conditions (pH = 13.3; I = 0.3 M) was investigated by bulk dissolution methods andin situatomic force microscopy (AFM). In bulk dissolution experiments, initial SiO2concentrations were high, and a steady state was reached after 136 h. The dissolution rates derived from the edge surface area (ESA) at the steady-state condition at 30, 50 and 70°C were 3.39 x 10−12, 1.75 × 10−11and 5.81 × 10−11mol/m2s, respectively. The AFM observations were conducted under three conditions: (Run I) short-termin situbatch dissolution at RT; (Run II) long-termin situflow-through dissolution at RT; and (Run III) long-term batch dissolution at 50°C. The observed reductions in montmorillonite particle volume for Runs I and II were due primarily to edge-surface dissolution. The ESA-based dissolution rate for Run I (10−9mol/m2s) was three orders of magnitude faster than that for Run II (10−12mol/m2s). The rate obtained for Run II corresponded to the rate at the steady-state conditions in the bulk dissolution experiments. A small number of etch pits developed in Run III slightly increased the ESA of montmorillonite since most of the montmorillonite particles were separated into monolayers lacking three-dimensional periodicity. The ESA-based dissolution rate for Run III was 2.26 × 10−11mol/m2s. Dissolution rates based on long-term AFM observations could be directly compared with steady-state rates obtained from bulk dissolution experiments. The AFM observations indicated that dissolution occurred at edge surfaces; therefore, the ESA should be used to calculate the dissolution rate for montmorillonite under alkaline conditions. Dissolution rates of individual particles with different morphologies estimated by AFM were similar to rates estimated from bulk dissolution experiments.
The Spanish ‘popular auteur’
Authors: Buse Peter , Triana-Toribio Núria , Willis Andrew
Published: April 2005

This article looks at how Álex de la Iglesia can be studied using reviewed auteurist strategies. Such a study has to take into account how he constructs his persona as director in a process which deviates greatly from the images and roles allocated to directors by traditional auteurism. This persona has, in its turn, been the perfect complement to output that has often been seen as a non-legitimate part of Spanish cinema for its reliance on non-realist, popular genres and blatant ‘homages’ to Hollywood. From the constructions of his persona, we propose to look at the adjustments that both his new auteur style and his output impose on the definition of an identity in which official/unofficial discourses on Spanish cinema are continuously engaged. We also suggest that this process must involve a revision of the scholarship on Spanish auteurs that is in currency.
Bisexual games and emotional sustainability in Ferzan Özpetek's queer films
Authors: Anderlini-D'Onofrio Serena
Published: April 2005

In Hamam (1997) and The Ignorant Fairies (2001), Turkish-Italian director Fernan Özpetek places a bisexual/bicultural game at the centre of the diegetic space. Three characters whose emotions are in flux become psychologically intimate in honest, non-competitive ways.
In the process, each discovers a new self within. In Hamam, a successful, married male professional from Italy discovers bisexual pleasure while in Istanbul. In The Ignorant Fairies, a successful female physician in Rome becomes part of the gay/immigrant community. Players define
happiness in their own terms and learn to generate the emotional environment that will sustain it. By modelling erotic behaviours that are conducive of cognitive explorations, the bi-games address global issues like religious intolerance, immigration, and cultural difference. In the context
of queer theory, my article analyses the bi-tropes at the centre of Özpetek's films as ludic structures conducive of self-knowledge and self-definition, and as cooperative games in which players maximize their chances for emotional sustainability.
Chernoff–Savage Theorem
Authors: Sen Pranab K.
Published: April 2005

The Chernoff–Savage Theorem, in the setting of two independent samples, exploits the basic asymptotic properties of the two sample (empirical) distributions in a novel approach to the study of asymptotic normality of a general class of two‐sample linear rank statistics. Prior to the evolution of weak convergence of probability measures and contiguity of probability measures, both taking place in the 1960's, this Theorem provided a completely new avenue of research in asymptotics in rank tests that laid down the foundation of the general theory of rank tests in a far more general set‐up comprising general linear models, time‐series, and multivariate as well as sequential models.
Aerosol (Aerobiology, Aerosols, Bioaerosols, Microbial Aerosols)
Authors: Mohr Alan Jeff
Published: April 2005

Aerobiology is the study of microbiological particles that have, either naturally or purposefully, been introduced into the air. Bioaerosols are attractive as terrorist weapons because they are silent, invisible, and odorless, and can be introduced clandestinely to strike without warning. The fate and transport of bioaerosols is a complicated issue, however, involving many physical and biochemical factors. Both the physical properties of bioaerosols and the likelihood for their successful delivery depend largely on the dissemination method applied.
A
nimal
A
id
A
ssociation: A Case Study
Authors:   Monterey WMD‐Terrorism Database (Revised)
Published: April 2005

In 1992, British Columbia received a letter from The Animal Aid Association that the group had injected Cold Buster Bars with HIV in protest of perceived animal cruelty on the part of the product's manufacturer. This incident has been classified as a hoax.
CDC
Category
C
Agents
Authors: Longmire Michelle
Published: April 2005

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Category C consists of biological agents not presently considered public health threats in terms of bioterrorism but which could emerge in this capacity as the scientific understanding of them grows in the future. Category C agents include Nipah virus, the hantaviruses, and multiple drug‐resistant (MDR)
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. Each is discussed, with special attention paid to weapons application.
C
entral
I
ntelligence
A
gency
Authors: Baker Michelle
Published: April 2005

The U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is engaged in a broad range of efforts to combat biological weapons development and use, particularly in relation to threats involving nonstate actors and terrorists. The CIA's efforts in this regard, intelligence gathering responsibilities, and collaborative efforts within the intelligence community are discussed.
Consequence Management
Authors: Dembek Zygmunt F. , Cieslak Theodore J.
Published: April 2005

Consequence management of a bioterrorism event includes those sustained measures necessary to protect public health, maintain essential government and health care services, and provide emergency relief where needed. State public health and healthcare agencies and providers have vital roles in the consequence management of a bioterrorism event. State coordination of the consequences of any disaster occurs through the State Coordinating Officer (SCO) and the State Emergency Management Agency, acting on behalf of the state's governor. In the event that state consequence management resources become exhausted, the Federal Response Plan (FRP) may be activated throught the intervention of the Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO). It is expected that the coordination of federal resources for consequence management of a bioterrorism event will become streamlined through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, established in March 2003.
D
efense
R
esearch and
D
evelopment
C
anada ‐
S
uffield
Authors: Harrison Lauren
Published: April 2005

The mission of Defense Research and Development Canada, Suffield, is to perform research and development in the Canadian defense sector, with specific emphasis on military engineering and chemical and biological weapons. It is one of six research centers. The Suffield range is in Alberta Canada, in an area of 3000 square kilometers and home to abundant wildlife, oil and gas reserves, and archeological sites.

This article defines the various sectors of this facility. The research program has three main categories: military engineering; Technology Demonstration Project, Blast Force Protection; and chemical and biological weapons defense.
Department of Health and Human Services
Authors: Runyon Jennifer
Published: April 2005

The mission of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is to protect the health of all Americans and to provide essential human services, from disease and drug prevention to financial assistance and food and drug safety. The HHS has a range of responsibilities and programs related to threat of bioterrorism, largely focusing on basic scientific research for biodefense, assisting states with preparedness and response activities, and strengthening the public health infrastructure. The responsibilities of HHS agencies in supporting the HHS mission, and specifically its bioterrorism‐related activities, are discussed.
Department of Justice
Authors: Prosnitz Don
Published: April 2005

This document was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an agency of the U.S. government. Neither the U.S. government nor the University of California nor any of their employees, makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the U.S. government or the University of California. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the U.S. government or the University of California, and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes.
E
nvironmental
P
rotection
A
gency
Authors: Funke Odelia
Published: April 2005

EPA has clear authority and expertise in several areas important to bioterrorism defense, related primarily to its responsibilities for clean drinking water, emergency response to and cleanup of environmental hazards, and environmental monitoring. These responsibilities comprise three general categories: research and development, emergency response and cleanup, and water infrastructure. An overview of efforts in each category is provided.
Epidemiology in Bioterrorism
Authors: Zerwekh Tyler , Waring Stephen
Published: April 2005

The public health response to bioterrorism entails many distinct functions including surveillance and epidemiology, laboratory diagnosis, medical response, and interagency communications between stakeholders. This article focuses on surveillance and epidemiology, which together aim to decrease morbidity and mortality through the early detection and rapid diagnosis of disease in a community. This response plays a pivotal role in episodes both related and unrelated to bioterrorism.
Fatality Management
Authors: McGowan Dennis
Published: April 2005

Mass fatality management is an important consideration in the context of bioterrorism defense. Proper infection control, decontamination, and disposal measures are necessary to ensure that outbreaks are effectively controlled. A hypothetical mass fatality scenario is reviewed, with appropriate management steps delineated along the timeline.
Food and Beverage Sabotage
Authors: Sobel Jeremy
Published: April 2005

Sabotage of foods by terrorists and criminals has occurred in the United States, though rarely. A multiplicity of suitable biological and chemical agents exists, and the vast contemporary food supply system is vulnerable. Prevention, therefore, requires enhancement of food security. Since an outbreak caused by food sabotage would most likely be detected and handled by the existing public health system, minimization of casualties requires a robust standing public health infrastructure capable of detecting, investigating, and controlling all foodborne disease outbreaks, intentional and unintentional, and providing appropriate medical resources.
Homeland Defense
Authors: Smithson Amy E.
Published: April 2005

Homeland defense against bioterrorism involves a web of efforts on the local, state, and federal level to strengthen plans and capabilities to prevent, prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and recover from a major disease outbreak, whether among humans, animals, or plants. Key issues related to human populations include research and laboratory responsibilities, training and readiness, surveillance, treatment, and patient and hospital management. Key issues in the agricultural sphere essentially parallel these human issues. An overview of homeland defense discussing these and related issues is provided.
Al‐
Q
a‘ida
Authors: McCloud Kimberly
Published: April 2005

Al‐Qa'ida (the Base) is a worldwide network of organizations and individuals dedicated to jihad or holy war, allegedly for the cause of Islam. There are anywhere from 5,000 to 15,000 individuals active in al‐Qa'ida cells in as many as 60 countries around the world. Many terrorist and insurgency groups are closely linked with al‐Qa'ida. Most of the individuals groups associated with al‐Qa'ida strive to establish Islamic governments that would enforce Islamic law in their countries of origin. In many cases they have carried out attacks on carefully selected targets in countries in order to achieve this end. Primary targets are the United States and its allies. Since the attacks of September 11, 2001, many new developments with al‐Qa'ida and 'Usama Bin Ladin have taken place. Attacks led by the United States against al‐Qa'ida forced out safe havens in Afghanistan and ousted the Taliban. This article gives the chronological events of al‐Qa'ida attacks and outcomes. As of 2003, it has not been confirmed that al‐Qa'ida possesses biological weapons or capabilities. Although they have been weakened by the U.S. military, and massive intelligence networks, they remain a formidable terrorist group with leaders and activist at large around the world.
Mathematical modeling of a galvanostatic soil electroremediation process
Authors: Teutli‐León M. M. , Oropeza M. T. , González I. , Soria A.
Published: April 2005

A mathematical model for galvanostatic soil electroremediation of cadmium‐spiked kaolinite was built considering: chemical and electrical properties from both phases, assumption of local equilibrium conditions, electroneutrality from phase interactions, a dynamic surface charge, and surface adsorbed concentrations defined by Boltzmann's equation. Model prediction trends agree with the expected phenomena to occur during an electroremediation process, as far as they show: a right electroosmotic fluid velocity with a suction effect at the anode position, a pH drop at the cathode position, soluble cadmium transport from anode to cathode, as well as cadmium accumulation before reaching the cathode, and a drop in electric potential gradient. Also, model strength allows the prediction of chemical species transient concentration; and provides an insight on species distribution through the spatial domain, while electroremediation takes place. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2005
F‐actin aggregates may activate transformed cell surfaces
Authors: Carley William W. , Webb Watt W.
Published: April 2005

Observations on the role of transformation‐specific F‐aggregates [Carley et al, 1981] in altering morphology, adhesion and intercellular interaction in transformed cells are reported here. The appearance and disappearance of membrane‐ and substrate‐associated F‐actin aggregates (MAG and SAG, respectively) are followed in a cell line temperature‐sensitive for transformation. Since MAG structures also appear near the membrane in suspension cultures of transformed cells and in transformed cells in coculture with untransformed cells, they appear to function at cell‐cell contacts. Unlike microfilament bundles in untransformed cells, MAG and SAG do not contain the F‐actin regulatory protein tropomyosin. The lack of tropomyosin in these structures near the membrane is reminiscent of areas of an exceptionally active actin cytoskeleton usually associated with motile processes of the normal cell membrane. Such areas of membrane‐cytoskeletal interaction may be involved in the aberrant cell‐cell communication as well as the aggressive behavior often seen in transformed cells.
Organization and function of structural elements in focal contacts of tissue culture cells
Authors: Jockusch Brigitte M. , Füchtbauer Annette
Published: April 2005

The role of structural elements in the organization and maintenance of focal contacts was studied by microinjecting into tissue culture cells specific probes which interfere with filamentous actin or with vinculin: actin interaction. Injection of actin capping proteins from Physarum and brain resulted in breakdown of microfilament bundles starting at their distal ends and in loss of focal contacts. This process was fully reversible. Injection of a high affinity antibody against chicken gizzard vinculin led to partial breakdown of microfilament bundles concomitant with disruption of focal contacts with vinculin remaining at the plasma membrane. This process was irreversible.
Talin: A cytoskeletal component concentrated in adhesion plaques and other sites of actin‐membrane interaction
Authors: Burridge Keith , Connell Laurie
Published: April 2005

Talin is a recently identified cytoskeletal protein with a polypeptide molecular weight of 215,000 daltons. In cultured fibroblasts talin has been localized by immunofluorescence in adhesion plaques (focal contacts), in the ruffling membranes and leading lamellae of the cell periphery, and in fibrillar patterns that align with microfilament bundles and/or with cell surface fibronectin. These cellular locations suggest that the protein could function either in the attachment of microfilaments to the plasma membane or in the organization of microfilaments close to membrane attachment sites. Cell transformation by viruses such as Rous sarcoma virus disrupts the normal organization of talin, and in most transformed cells talin appears distributed diffusely through the cytoplasm. In a few cells talin is detected in doughnut‐shaped aggregates, as a ring surrounding a central core of actin. The significance of these structures is uncertain, but in some cells the individual structures will condense to form much larger aggregates with a striking appearance when viewed by immunofluoresence microscopy.
Structural connections of the muscle‐tendon junction
Authors: Trotter John A. , Eberhard Susan , Samora Ann
Published: April 2005

The muscle‐tendon junction of murine skeletal muscles has been analyzed by a variety of extraction techniques, by myosin subfragment‐1 binding experiments, and by ultrastructural immunocytochemistry. The results indicate that the muscle‐tendon junction is composed of four distinct domains: an intracellular domain, the internal lamina; a domain connecting the internal lamina with the lamina densa of the external lamina, the connecting domain; the lamina densa; and a domain which attaches the lamina densa to the collagen fibers, the matrix. Each of these domains is distinct with respect to position, three‐dimensional organization, and molecular composition, and is therefore considered to have a unique role in the transmission of contractile force.
A covalently cross‐linked matrix in skeletal muscle fibers
Authors: Loewy Ariel G. , Wilson Frank J. , Taggart Nina M. , Greene Elizabeth A. , Frasca Peter , Kaufman Howard S. , Sorrell Michael J.
Published: April 2005

When skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle is exhaustively extracted with a protein‐unfolding reagent such as 6 M guanidine HCl and a disulfide‐reducing reagent such as 5% β‐mercaptoethanol, a tissue ghost remains intact and retains the characteristic shape and dimensions of the tissue before extraction. In the case of chicken pectoral muscle, the tissue ghost contains 1% of the original muscle proteins. Guanidine HCl extraction followed by collagenase treatment of glycerol‐extracted chicken pectoral muscle releases a clean preparation of elongated structures containing 0.2% of the original protein and representing the covalently cross‐linked remnants of the muscle fibers. The material of these muscle fiber ghosts extends throughout the interior of the cell. Antibodies raised against the tissue ghosts of smooth muscle cross‐react with glycerol extracted skeletal myofibrils, forming a banding pattern which coincides with the banding pattern observed when myofibrils are reacted with antibodies against titin. Titin, a large and soluble protein found in skeletal muscle, cross‐reacts with our antigizzard antibody. However, amino acid analysis of the muscle fiber ghosts indicates that titin cannot be the only subunit of the insoluble polymer, but that one or more proteins with a very high glycine and alanine content and a very low basic and acidic amino acid content must also form part of the covalently cross‐linked matrix. The possibility is presented that this matrix may be the basis of the superthin 2–3‐nm filaments which have been observed in a variety of cell types.
The cytoskeleton of murine leukemia virus (MuLV)‐infected mouse fibroblasts as observed under varying conditions of formaldehyde fixation
Authors: Satake Masanobu , Lupo Davis , Luftig Ronald B.
Published: April 2005

Mouse fibroblasts chronically infected with Moloney murine leukemia virus (MuLV) were fixed using variable amounts of formaldehyde, then examined by indirect immunofluorescence light microscopy. Several antisera were employed to detect both external and internal antigens associated with the cells, eg, MuLV gp70, tubulin, vimentin, and actin. Our results indicate that the cell membranes could be partially permeabilized to IgG molecules directed against the three cytoskeletal antigens only after 3.7%, but not 1%, formaldehyde treatment. Complete permeabilization was achieved by subsequent acetone treatment of cells after 3.7% formaldehyde fixation. In such cells, normal‐appearing cytoskeletal networks of microtubules and intermediate filaments were observed. Stress fibers were also seen; however, they appeared less numerous and thinner than those of uninfected mouse fibroblasts. Further, a significant amounts of F‐actin fluorescence was localized in granules in the cytoplasm of infected cells. Similar observations were made using JLS‐V9 mouse cells chronically infected with 334C virus, another MuLV. These results taken together suggest that subtle differences exist in the organization of actin within MuLV‐infected and uninfected mouse fibroblasts.
Three‐dimensional organization of the platelet cytoskeleton during adhesion in vitro: Observations on human and nonhuman primate cells
Authors: Lewis Jon C. , White Melanie S. , Prater Tilman , Porter Keith R. , Steele Robin J.
Published: April 2005

Adhesion of platelets in vitro resulted in rapid polymerization of the amorphous cytoplasmic ground substance into an organized cytoskeletal superstructure. This cytoskeleton, characterized through the use of whole‐mount and stereo (3‐D), high‐voltage microscopy in conjunction with morphometrics and cytochemistry, comprised four major size classes of filaments organized in distinctive zones. The central matrix, or granulomere, at the center of the cell mass, was an ill‐defined meshwork of 80–100‐Å filaments which enshrouded granules, dense bodies, and elements of the dense tubular system as identified through peroxidase cytochemistry. Demarcasting this central matrix was a trabecular zone containing 30–50, 80–100, and 150–170 Å filaments in an open and rigid‐appearing lattice. Circumscribing the trabecular zone and extending to the margins of the hyalomere was the third region, the peripheral web, in which 70‐Å filaments were arranged in a tight honeycomb lattice. This organizational pattern was retained in cytoskeletons prepared by Triton x‐100 extraction of the adherent cells, and was observed in basally located cells of aggregates which formed subsequent to adhesion. Our observations are consistent with biochemical studies of cytoskeletons prepared from suspended platelets and suggest a contractile protein composition for the superstructure during adhesion.
Spectrin, fodrin, and TW260/240: A family of related proteins lining the plasma membrane
Authors: Glenney John R. , Glenney Phyllis
Published: April 2005

Recently, molecules highly related to erythrocyte spectrin have been identified in nonerythroid cells. Here we summarize our current understanding of these molecules and suggest a model for their organization. Significant differences exist between this family of proteins isolated from mammalian cells and avian cells, and this may explain the variability in antibody preparations as well as differences in peptide maps of these subunits which have been reported. We have prepared antibodies specific for the variant subunits of the spectrinlike proteins fodrin, spectrin, and TW260/240 and analyzed the distribution of these variant subunits in different chicken cell types as well as their developmental distribution in the intestine. The results suggest that fodrin is the general member of this family of proteins and can even coexist with other spectrinlike proteins in the same cells.
Coelomocyte spectrin
Authors: Edds Kenneth T. , Venuti‐Henderson Judith
Published: April 2005

We have investigated the presence and localization of an α‐spectrinlike protein and its potential role in the morphological transformation of sea urchin coelomocytes. In immunofluorescence images there is a diffuse fluorescence throughout the petaloid cytoplasm, indicating a random distribution of the spectrinlike protein prior to the transformation. As these cells form filopodia, there is a coincident appearance of a spectrinlike protein, as seen in fluorescent images, at the site of filopodial initiation. As the filopodia continue to form and lengthen, the spectrin localization parallels their development. There is a single polypeptide observed on sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) gels of whole coelomocyte lysates that cross‐reacts with the anti‐α‐spectrin immunogen and comigrates with it at 240 kilodaltons.
Colchicine‐sensitive and colchicine‐insensitive intermediate filament systems distinguished by a new intermediate filament‐associated protein, IFAP‐70/280kD
Authors: Yang Hsi‐Yuan , Lieska Norman , Goldman Anne E. , Goldman Robert D.
Published: April 2005

A monoclonal antibody was produced, using as antigen a BHK‐21 cytoskeletal preparation enriched in intermediate filaments (IF) and their associated proteins. This antibody reacted exclusively with a reproducible set of 70‐280kD polypeptides present in minor quantities in this preparation, as detected by immunoblot analysis. Based upon several criteria, this immunologically related group of polypeptides was designated as IFAP‐70/280kD (IF‐Associated Protein): (1) it coisolated with IF in vitro, (2) it co‐localized (by both immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy) with IF in situ in all stages of cell spreading, and (3) it segregated in vitro with the 54/55kD (desmin/vimentin) structural IF subunit proteins of BHK cells through two cycles of in vitro disassembly/assembly. Immunogold labeling further localized IFAP‐70/280kD to regions of parallel or loosely bundled IF in situ, suggesting a role in regulating the supramolecular organization of IF. When this monoclonal antibody was used for double‐label immunofluorescence observations of colchicine‐treated BHK cells, it demonstrated the presence of colchicine‐sensitive and colchicine‐insensitive IF. Anti‐IFAP‐70/280kD localized entirely to the drug‐induced juxtanuclear IF cap, while a polyclonal antibody directed against the desmin/vimentin structural IF subunits and the previously characterized monoclonal anti‐IFAP‐300kD [Yang et al., 1985; J. Cell Biol. 100:620] localized to both the juxtanuclear IF cap and a colchicine‐insensitive IF network peripheral to the cap in the same cells. The colchicine‐insensitive IF pattern often exhibited similarities to that observed for the actin‐based stress fiber system, suggesting that stress fiber association may be an additional factor in IF organization. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preferences of Women Evaluating Risks of Tamoxifen (POWER) study of preferences for tamoxifen for breast cancer risk reduction
Authors: Melnikow Joy , Paterniti Debora , Azari Rahman , Kuenneth Christina , Birch Stephen , Kuppermann Miriam , Nuovo James , Keyzer Janet , Henderson Stuart
Published: April 2005

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to understand the attitudes and preferences of risk‐eligible women regarding use of tamoxifen for breast cancer risk reduction.

METHODS

A cross‐sectional, mixed‐methods interview study was conducted at a university medical center and at community sites. Participants were women who had an estimated 5‐year breast cancer risk ≥ 1.7% and no prior breast cancer. Interviews were conducted in English or Spanish. The interview included a 15‐minute, standardized educational session on the potential benefits and harms of tamoxifen followed by close‐ended and open‐ended questions about participants' inclinations to take tamoxifen and factors important to their decision. A demographic questionnaire, a test on knowledge of potential benefits and harms of tamoxifen, and an interview evaluation were included.

RESULTS

Two hundred fifty‐five women completed interviews. Their estimated mean 5‐year breast cancer risk was 2.8%; and their mean self‐perceived 5‐year risk was 32.7%. After the educational intervention, 45 women (17.6%) were inclined to take tamoxifen. Very high risk women (> 3.5%) were no more inclined to take it than women with lower risk (1.7–3.5%). In a multivariable analysis, lower income, confidence in the effectiveness of tamoxifen, and concern about fractures were associated with being inclined to take it; concern about pulmonary embolism, dyspareunia, cataracts, and low self‐perceived breast cancer risk were associated negatively with taking tamoxifen. Participants expressed concerns about adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Less than 20% of women were interested in tamoxifen after education about potential benefits and harms, despite a very high self‐perceived breast cancer risk. Candidate chemoprevention agents must have few potential adverse effects to achieve widespread acceptance. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Retromolar trigone squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiotherapy alone or combined with surgery
Authors: Mendenhall William M. , Morris Christopher G. , Amdur Robert J. , Werning John W. , Villaret Douglas B.
Published: April 2005

BACKGROUND

Treatment outcomes were analyzed for retromolar trigone squamous cell carcinoma.

METHODS

Between June 1966 and August 2003, 99 patients were treated with radiotherapy alone (35 patients) or radiotherapy combined with surgery (64 patients). Followup ranged from 0.2 to 23.8 years (median, 3.3 yrs). All living patients had followup for at least 1 year.

RESULTS

The 5‐year local–regional control rates after definitive radiotherapy versus surgery and radiotherapy were as follows: Stages I–III, 51% and 87%; Stage IV, 42% and 62%; and overall, 48% and 71%, respectively. The 5‐year cause‐specific survival rates after definitive radiotherapy compared with surgery and radiotherapy were as follows: Stages I–III, 56% and 83%; Stage IV, 50% and 61%; and overall, 52% and 69%, respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed that the likelihood of cure was better with surgery and radiotherapy compared with definitive radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The likelihood of cure after treatment for retromolar trigone squamous cell carcinoma was influenced by the extent of disease and treatment. Patients treated with surgery and radiotherapy had a better outcome than those treated with radiotherapy alone. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Flow cytometric quantitative determination of ingestion by phagocytes needs the distinguishing of overlapping populations of binding and ingesting cells
Authors: Nuutila Jari , Lilius Esa‐Matti
Published: April 2005

Background

The use of flow cytometry with fluorescently labeled particles provides the means to examine quantitatively the phagocytotic capacity of an individual phagocyte. This report describes an improved flow cytometric method of analysis for kinetic measurement of phagocytosis of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)–labeled zymosan particles by human leukocytes.

Methods

FITC‐labeled zymosan was incubated with leukocyte suspension, and at selected time intervals fluorescence positive neutrophils were divided by phagocytotic gates into three subpopulations: neutrophils that were neither binding nor ingesting particles, neutrophils that were only binding particles (binding cells), and neutrophils that were binding and ingesting particles (ingesting cells). For the distinction between internalized and surface‐bound FITC‐labeled zymosan, trypan blue (1.2 mg/ml) was used to quench surface‐bound fluorescence.

Results

The technical challenges related to settings of phagocytotic gates and derivation of phagocytotic equations were presented. From 28 control samples, numerical values of mean fluorescence intensities and percentages of phagocytotic subpopulations inside phagocytotic gates before and after quenching were inserted into phagocytotic equations and corrected phagocytotic parameters were calculated. Calculated parameters were surprisingly constant across individuals.

Conclusions

Essential elements of the present method appeared to be partial quenching of extracellular fluorescence with trypan blue and distinguishing between overlapping populations of binding and ingesting cells. Corrections using derived phagocytotic equations proved necessary for accurate kinetic phagocytotic measurements. Corrections were less necessary when the ingestion process was finished. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Persistent oligoclonal CD4dimCD8+T cells in peripheral blood
Authors: Lambert Claude , Iobagiu Cristina , Genin Christian
Published: April 2005

Background

Routine CD4/CD8 T‐cell phenotyping may shows a small fraction of CD4dimCD8+ T cells with a homogeneous appearance as described for lymphoproliferative syndromes or chronic infections. The aim of this study was to elucidate the significance of CD4dimCD8+ T cells and their degree of diversity.

Methods

Phenotyping was performed in 272 samples from healthy donors, elderly patients, and immunocompromised (human immunodeficiency virus or renal transplantation) patients.

Results

The CD4dimCD8+ T cells had decreased fluorescence intensity for CD4 but not for CD8. The frequency of patients with CD4dimCD8+ T cells (>20 cells/μl; 10.3% of patients with human immunodeficiency virus and 7.7% with renal transplantation) was not significantly different when compared with healthy donors (9.7%). The CD4dimCD8+ T cells did not express the activation marker CD69. The CD8 of CD4dimCD8+ T cells expressed the heterodimeric (β) isoform. In 13 of 26 samples, the apparently highly homogeneous CD4dimCD8+ T cells expressed one predominant T‐cell receptor Vβ clonotype. These predominant clonotypes were widely distributed among patients: Vβ 5.2, 17, 2, 3, 5.1, 13.1, 14, and 20.

Conclusions

Whether these findings demonstrate an oligoclonal reaction to chronic inflammation or an emerging lymphoproliferative disorder must be elucidated in a long‐term longitudinal study. By analogy to monoclonal gammopathy, we propose to name this phenomenon “oligoclonal clonopathy of undetermined significance.” © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stabilization of Organometallic Species Achieved by the Use of N‐Heterocyclic Carbene (NHC) Ligands
Authors: Scott Natalie M. , Nolan Steven P.
Published: April 2005

This review describes the stabilization of various coordinatively unsaturated metal centers through the incorporation of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands. Such species are more thermally stable compared to the more ubiquitous tertiary phosphane systems. Although NHCs can be considered as phosphane mimics it has become apparent that there are substantial differences between the two ligand families. In general, NHC ligands are much more electron‐donating and sterically demanding than bulky phosphane ligands. We also discuss the various thermochemical and infrared studies of metal carbene species that have provided insight into NHC ligands properties, and at last allowed meaningful comparison to tertiary phosphane ligands. While NHCs are generally viewed as strong binding low reactive ligands, in some instances they have been found to be not so innocent and can undergo facile intramolecular C–H activation as well as abnormal ligand binding [C‐5(4) vs. C‐2]. Here we highlight such reactions with late‐transition metal centers that have allowed the isolation of various unsaturated LTM species. These have so far eluded isolation in analogous phosphane‐based systems. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)
Capillary electrophoresis‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry: A report on technical principles and problem solutions, potential, and limitations of this technology as well as on examples of application
Authors: Michalke Bernhard
Published: April 2005

This paper summarizes some basic principles of capillary electrophoresis (CE), inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS), and coupling of both devices. Especially the interfacing is described in detail. A special focus is drawn to various interface developments reported in literature and technical problems, i.e., requirements to the interface setup and respective solutions. Nowadays, typically sheath flow‐based interfaces are used. The sheath flow fulfills two requirements of hyphenation, (i) the closing of the electrical circuit of CE and (ii) the feeding of the used nebulizer with an adequate flow rate. In the beginning of CE‐ICP‐MS coupling predominantly home‐made interface‐nebulizer constructions were developed and tested for various speciation problems. Now increasingly such laboratory‐constructed interfaces are left. Mostly commercial nebulizers are employed being combined with commercially available tee or cross fittings to connect the CE capillary to the electrode, the additional sheath flow, and the nebulizer. Due to the low sample amounts and low flow rates from CE, such nebulizers are typically low‐flow nebulizers like, e.g., the microconcentric nebulizer (MCN) and the direct injection nebulizer (DIN). However, there are also reports on couplings using standard Meinhard systems. Still the control and reduction of a siphoning sucting flow and sufficient detection limits are the major problems in hyphenating CE to ICP‐MS. Different solutions are reported on these problems and summarized here. Finally numerous applications are reported. Mostly, applications are performed on speciation of selenium, arsenic, metallothionein isoforms, mercury, or cobalt.
Adaptive performance improvement of switched reluctance motor with two‐phase excitation
Authors: Faiz Jawad , Rezaeealam B. , Pillay P.
Published: April 2005

This paper presents an analytical model of a switched reluctance motor (SRM) with two phases simultaneously excited and a short flux path in the magnetic circuit of the motor, including the saturation effect. The aim is to improve transient operation and to reduce the torque ripples of the motor. To this end, an adaptive mechanism is introduced for the desirable torque estimation that tends the speed error to zero; a proper current profile is then determined in order to guarantee the convergence of the motor's torque to the desirable estimated value. The recommended technique does not require the precise knowledge of the parameters of the motor such as mutual effect of adjacent phases. It is shown that the application of this technique leads to a better transient operation of motor compared to other available techniques. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical role of tissue and serum levels of SCCA antigen in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Giannelli Gianluigi , Marinosci Felice , Sgarra Concetta , Lupo Luigi , Dentico Pietro , Antonaci Salvatore
Published: April 2005

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most frequent cancer in the world and a common occurrence in patients with liver cirrhosis in western and North American countries. Ultrasound screening is a powerful technique for HCC diagnosis, whereas the only available serologic test, alpha‐fetoprotein, has poor reliability. It has been reported that the squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) is overexpressed in HCC tissue. In our study, the expression of SCCA was investigated in tumoral and peritumoral tissues and in the serum of 52 HCC patients, as well as in the serum of 48 cirrhotic patients. The results show that SCCA expression is much stronger in the tumoral than in the peritumoral tissue of HCC. Moreover, it is also evident in metastatic nodules present in the peritumoral tissue. SCCA serum levels were significantly higher in HCC samples than in cirrhotic samples. However, no correlation was found between SCCA expression and the HCC histologic degree, nor did SCCA expression correlate with tumor size, presence of metastasis or clinical outcome. In conclusion, in HCC patients, the SCCA antigen could represent a useful marker for the detection of micro‐metastasis in the tissues and for large‐scale screening of serum in patients at risk. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of loss of p53 and p16 function on life span and survival of human urothelial cells
Authors: Shaw Nicola J. , Georgopoulos Nikolaos T. , Southgate Jennifer , Trejdosiewicz Ludwik K.
Published: April 2005

Human urothelial cell carcinoma evolves via the accumulation of numerous genetic alterations, with loss of p53 and p16 function representing important stages in the development of superficial lesions and their progression to malignant disease. To investigate the effects of disabling either or both proteins in otherwise normal human urothelial cells, we performed retroviral transductions with a dominant negative p53 miniprotein and/or mutant cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 (CDK4R24C) in 3 independent cell lines. Although cells with disabled p53 function showed a higher proliferation rate, inactivation of neither p53 nor p16 function resulted in any extension of life span and the double‐transductants failed to flourish, demonstrating that further genetic alterations are required to attain an immortalised phenotype. However, CDK4R24C transductants showed a marked increase in apoptotic susceptibility to membrane‐presented CD40 ligand, being intermediate between normal cells (nonsusceptible) and transformed cells (highly susceptible). By contrast, loss of p53 function alone only slightly increased the apoptotic susceptibility of urothelial cells. These results demonstrate that loss of p16 function, while insufficient to immortalise urothelial cells, nevertheless renders the cells more vulnerable to apoptosis induced by CD40 ligation. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lack of guanylyl cyclase C, the receptor for Escherichia coli heat‐stable enterotoxin, results in reduced polyp formation and increased apoptosis in the multiple intestinal neoplasia (Min) mouse model
Authors: Mann Elizabeth A. , Steinbrecher Kris A. , Stroup Carmen , Witte David P. , Cohen Mitchell B. , Giannella Ralph A.
Published: April 2005

Guanylyl cyclase C (GC‐C), a transmembrane receptor for bacterial heat‐stable enterotoxin and the mammalian peptides guanylin and uroguanylin, mediates intestinal ion secretion and affects intestinal cell growth via cyclic GMP signaling. In intestinal tumors, GC‐C expression is maintained while guanylin and uroguanylin expression is lost, suggesting a role for GC‐C activation in tumor formation or growth. We show by in situ hybridization that GC‐C expression is retained in adenomas from multiple intestinal neoplasia (ApcMin/+) mice. In order to determine the in vivo role of GC‐C in intestinal tumorigenesis, we generated ApcMin/+ mice homozygous for a targeted deletion of the gene encoding GC‐C and hypothesized that these mice would have increased tumor multiplicity and size compared to wild‐type ApcMin/+ mice on the same genetic background. In contrast, the absence of GC‐C resulted in a reduction of median polyp number by 55%. There was no change in the median diameter of polyps, suggesting no effect on tumor growth. Somatic loss of the wild‐type Apc allele, an initiating event in intestinal tumorigenesis, also occurred in polyps from GC‐C‐deficient ApcMin/+ mice. We have found increased levels of apoptosis as well as increased caspase‐3 and caspase‐7 gene expression in the intestines of GC‐C‐deficient ApcMin/+ mice compared with ApcMin/+ mice. We propose that these alterations are a possible compensatory mechanism by which loss of GC‐C signaling also affects tumorigenesis. Published 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantum chemical modeling of the reduction of cis‐diammineplatinum(IV) tetrachloride [Pt(NH3)2Cl4] by methyl thiolate anion
Authors: Dobrogorskaia–Méreau Ia. I. , Nemukhin A. V.
Published: April 2005

We present here both an ab initio and quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) study of the cis‐[Pt(NH3)2Cl4] complex reduction by methyl thiolate anion, SCH, which is used as a model of glutathione. Geometry and electronic structure of cis‐[Pt(NH3)2Cl4] are determined without and in aqueous medium. The mechanism of the reaction of reduction is characterized. The calculated activation energy of the reaction compares remarkably well with the experimental value. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 26: 865–870, 2005
Molecular genetics and structure of the human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Gonda Matthew A.
Published: April 2005

A novel human lymphotropic virus capable of crippling the immune system by infecting and destroying T4 antigen‐positive cells is now known to be the etiologic agent of the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). The AIDS or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) belongs to a family of RNA viruses called retroviruses. Several strains of HIV have been molecularly cloned, and DNA sequence comparisons have established that the proviral DNA genome is 9.7 kilobase pairs. The genome possesses characteristic retrovirus features including structural genes, flanked by long terminal repeats, in the order gag, pol, and env and, in addition, four unique nonstructural genes, several of which appear to be essential in regulating virus replication. Electron microscopy has played an important role in elucidating structural, genetic, and molecular properties of HIV and has aided in its classification as a member of the Lentivirnae retrovirus subfamily. Heteroduplex mapping methodologies pertinent to these findings are described. Although the relationships show considerable divergence, the similarities between HIV and lentiviruses are profound and encompass an indistinguishable morphology, genome sequence homology and topography, genomic diversity, and overlapping biology, including a preference for infecting cells of the immune system, a cytopathic effect in vitro, and the ability to produce a persistent, slowly progressing, degenerative disease in vivo. The newest HIV class (HIV‐2) has recently been molecularly characterized. HIV‐2 also bears all the hallmarks of a lentivirus but is more closely related to simian immunodeficiency viruses than the previously described HIV‐1, despite a similar biology. The HIV‐lentivirus phylogenetic relationship has broad implications for the AIDS disease process and has given new importance to the study of the natural history and pathogenesis of animal lentiviruses in searching for clues to prevent the spread of AIDS.