bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of music therapy on anxiety of patients with breast cancer after radical mastectomy: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Li Xiao‐Mei , Zhou Kai‐Na , Yan Hong , Wang Duo‐Lao , Zhang Yin‐Ping
Published: October 2011

li x.‐m., zhou k.‐n., yan h., wang d.‐l. & zhang y.‐p. (2011) Effects of music therapy on anxiety of patients with breast cancer after radical mastectomy: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(5), 1145–1155.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a clinical trial of the effects of music therapy on anxiety of female breast cancer patients following radical mastectomy.

Background.  There is insufficient evidence on the effects of music therapy on state anxiety of breast cancer patients following radical mastectomy.

Methods.  A Hall’s Core, Care, and Cure Model‐based clinical trial was conducted in 120 female breast cancer patients from March to November 2009. A randomized controlled design was utilized. The patients were randomly allocated to the experimental group (n = 60) received music therapy in addition to routine nursing care, and the control group (n = 60) only received routine nursing care. A standardized questionnaire and the State Anxiety Inventory were applied. The primary endpoint was the state anxiety score measured at pretest (on the day before radical mastectomy) and at three post‐tests (on the day before patients were discharged from hospital, the second and third time of admission to hospital for chemotherapy respectively).

Results.  The pretest score revealed that the majority of the patients had a moderate level (77·5%) and 15% had severe level of state anxiety. The repeated‐measure ancova model analysis indicated that the mean state anxiety score was significantly lower in the experimental group than those in the control group at each of the three post‐test measurements. The mean difference between the experimental and control group together with 95% confidence intervals were −4·57 (−6·33, −2·82), −8·91 (−10·75, −7·08) and −9·69 (−11·52, −7·85) at the 1st post‐test, 2nd post‐test and 3rd post‐test respectively.

Conclusion.  Music therapy is found to have positive effects on decreasing state anxiety score.
A new tool for the molecular identification of Culicoides species of the Obsoletus group: the glass slide microarray approach
Authors: DEBLAUWE I. , DE WITTE J. C. , DE DEKEN G. , DE DEKEN R. , MADDER M. , VAN ERK S. , HOZA F. A. , LATHOUWERS D. , GEYSEN D.
Published: October 2011

Culicoides species of the Obsoletus group (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are potential vectors of bluetongue virus serotype 8 (BTV 8), which was introduced into central Western Europe in 2006. Correct morphological species identification of Obsoletus group females is especially difficult and molecular identification is the method of choice. In this study we present a new molecular tool based on probe hybridization using a DNA microarray format to identify Culicoides species of the Obsoletus group. The internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) gene sequences of 55 Culicoides belonging to 13 different species were determined and used, together with 19 Culicoides ITS1 sequences sourced from GenBank, to design species‐specific probes for the microarray test. This test was evaluated using the amplified ITS1 sequences of another 85 Culicoides specimens, belonging to 11 species. The microarray test successfully identified all samples (100%) of the Obsoletus group, identifying each specimen to species level within the group. This test has several advantages over existing polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based molecular tools, including possible capability for parallel analysis of many species, high sensitivity and specificity, and low background signal noise. Hand‐spotting of the microarray slide and the use of detection chemistry make this alternative technique affordable and feasible for any diagnostic laboratory with PCR facilities.
The Ultimate Irrelevance Proposition in Finance?
Authors: Karolyi G. Andrew
Published: October 2011

I survey 457 published papers in top finance journals across two decades to assess whether these papers misuse tests of significance. More than 80% of published studies are diligent about distinguishing between statistical and economic significance and quantifying and interpreting the economic magnitudes of the statistical relationships they measure. Yet, only 10% of these acknowledge limits to the power of their tests and even fewer do anything about them. Recent demographic trends in publishing, such as larger co‐author teams and increased participation by non‐North American scholars, women, and those outside the top finance departments are not associated with these outcomes.
Anti‐inflammatory effects and the underlying mechanisms of action of daidzein in murine macrophages stimulated with Prevotella intermedia lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Choi E.‐Y. , Jin J.‐Y. , Lee J.‐Y. , Choi J.‐I. , Choi I. S. , Kim S.‐J.
Published: October 2011

Choi E‐Y, Jin J‐Y, Lee J‐Y, Choi J‐I, Choi IS, Kim S‐J. Anti‐inflammatory effects and the underlying mechanisms of action of daidzein in murine macrophages stimulated with Prevotella intermedia lipopolysaccharide. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 204–211. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  Host modulatory agents directed at inhibiting specific proinflammatory mediators could be beneficial in terms of attenuating periodontal disease progression and potentially enhancing therapeutic responses. The aim of this study was to investigate whether daidzein could modulate the production inflammatory mediators in macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Prevotella intermedia, a pathogen implicated in periodontal disease, and to delineate underlying mechanisms of action.

Material and Methods:  LPS was extracted from P. intermedia ATCC 25611 cells by the standard hot phenol–water method. The amounts of nitric oxide (NO) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) secreted into the culture medium were assayed. A real‐time PCR was performed to quantify inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and IL‐6 mRNA expression. We used immunoblot analysis to characterize iNOS protein expression, phosphrylation of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) and p38, degradation of inhibitory κB‐α (IκB‐α), nuclear translocation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) subunits and phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1). The DNA‐binding activity of NF‐κB was assessed by using ELISA‐based kits.

Results:  Daidzein significantly inhibited the production of NO and IL‐6, as well as their mRNA expression, in P. intermedia LPS‐treated RAW264.7 cells. The JNK and p38 pathways were not involved in the regulation of LPS‐induced NO and IL‐6 release by daidzein. Daidzein inhibited the degradation of IκB‐α induced by P. intermedia LPS. In addition, daidzein suppressed NF‐κB transcriptional activity via regulation of the nuclear translocation and DNA‐binding activity of NF‐κB p50 subunit and blocked STAT1 phosphorylation.

Conclusion:  Although additional studies are required to dissect the molecular mechanism of action, our results suggest that daidzein could be a promising agent for treating inflammatory periodontal disease. Further research in animal models of periodontitis is necessary to better evaluate the potential of daidzein as a novel therapeutic agent to treat periodontal disease.
The invisible work with tobacco cessation – strategies among dental hygienists
Authors: Andersson P , Westergren A , Johannsen A
Published: October 2011

To cite this article:
 
Int J Dent Hygiene
10, 2012; 54–60  DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2011.00530.x  Andersson P, Westergren A, Johannsen A. The invisible work with tobacco cessation – strategies among dental hygienists.

Abstract:  Objective:  This study elucidates dental hygienists’ experiences of work with tobacco cessation among patients who smoke or use snuff.

Methods:  Data were obtained and categorized by interviewing 12 dental hygienists, who worked actively with tobacco cessation interventions. Qualitative content analysis was used for analysis.

Results:  The latent content was formulated into the core category ‘the invisible oral health promotion work’. The informants thought that they had a responsibility to work with tobacco cessation. They perceived the financial system in which they perform the activity as frustrating, because tobacco cessation has no treatment code in the dental care insurance. This was one of several reasons why they had to integrate it in other treatment procedures. The results identified three categories: ‘balance in the meeting’, ‘possibilities and hindrance’ and ‘procedures’. In the narratives, both positive and negative aspects were displayed.

Conclusions:  The financial conditions for tobacco cessation interventions need to be reformed and the activity has to be given a higher priority in the organization of dental care. Practical training in performing tobacco cessation interventions is important during the dental hygiene education; otherwise, tobacco cessation interventions will remain invisible in oral health promotion in the future.
A spoonful of sugar makes the melanoma go: the role of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in melanoma metastasis
Authors: O’Connell M. P. , Weeraratna A. T.
Published: October 2011

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) have been shown to regulate signaling in many systems and are of increasing interest in cancer. While these are not the only sugars to drive melanoma metastasis, HSPGs play important roles in driving metastatic signaling cascades in melanoma. The ability of these proteins to modulate ligand–receptor interactions in melanoma has been quite understudied. Recent data from several groups indicate the importance of these ligands in modulating key signaling pathways including Wnt and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the structure and function of these proteoglycans and their role in melanoma. Understanding how HSPGs modulate signaling in melanoma could lead to new therapeutic approaches via the dampening or heightening of key signaling pathways.
The Denver Community Museum
Authors: Kopke Jaime
Published: October 2011

Abstract This essay recounts the story of the Denver Community Museum, a pop‐up institution which operated for almost a year in downtown Denver, Colorado. This temporary museum was designed to be short‐lived. It prompted experiments with audience participation and questioned past versus present, fact versus fiction, and the museum “voice.” This article gives an overview of the space and its operations. Using personal accounts, the article explores the value of participation for the museum’s audience, as well as for the institution itself. These narratives are used as a springboard for a larger discussion of museum practice and creating opportunities for personal connection within the museum.
Natural Convection of Cu-Gallium Nanofluid in Enclosures
Authors: Qi Cong , He Yurong , Hu Yanwei , Yang Juancheng , Li Fengchen , Ding Yulong
Published: October 2011

In this work, the natural convection heat transfer of Cu-gallium nanofluid in a differentially heated enclosure is investigated. A single-phase model is employed with constant or temperature-dependent properties of the fluid. The results are shown over a wide range of Grashof numbers, volume fractions of nanoparticles, and aspect ratios. The Nusselt number is demonstrated to be sensitive to the aspect ratio. It is found that the Nusselt number is more sensitive to thermal conductivity than viscosity at a low velocity (especially for a low aspect ratio and a low Grashof number), however, it is more sensitive to the viscosity than the thermal conductivity at a high velocity (high aspect ratio and high Grashof number). In addition, the evolution of velocity vectors, isotherms, and Nusselt number for a small aspect ratio is investigated.
Rotational diffusion may govern the rheology of magnetic suspensions
Authors: Kuzhir P. , Magnet C. , Bossis G. , Meunier A. , Bashtovoi V.
Published: October 2011

This paper is focused on the theoretical modeling of the rheological properties of the magnetic suspensions in shear flows under an external magnetic field aligned with the streamlines. The conventional theory postulates that the field-induced aggregates of magnetic particles are highly anisotropic and aligned with the flow direction. Therefore, no substantial variation in suspension viscosity would be expected in the presence of field. However, experiments reveal a strong Bingham rheological behavior of the suspensions with a dynamic yield stress of the same order of magnitude that the one measured in the magnetic fields perpendicular to the flow. We explain the high level of shear stress, generated in longitudinal magnetic fields, by stochastic rotary oscillations of the aggregates caused by many-body magnetic interactions with neighboring aggregates. The interaggregate interactions are accounted for by an effective rotational diffusion process with a diffusion constant proportional to the mean square interaction torque—a net magnetic torque exerted to a given aggregate by all the neighboring aggregates. Using the equations for the orientation tensors coupled with the balance of forces acting on aggregates, we find the orientation distribution and size of the aggregates as function of the magnetic field intensity and shear rate. Our theory, developed for semidilute regime, reproduces the Bingham behavior observed experimentally and fits the experimental data reasonably well in a wide range of particle concentrations. We find that the yield stress increases quadratically with the magnetic field strength and exhibits a cubic growth with respect to the particle volume fraction. A part from resolving a particular rheological problem, the new concept of magnetically induced diffusion reveals the importance of long-range nonhydrodynamic interactions in the rotary diffusion process and could probably contribute to the understanding of this process in other concentrated systems subject to nonhydrodynamic interactions.
Numerical predictions of the viscosity of non-Brownian suspensions in the semidilute regime
Authors: Rexha Genta , Minale Mario
Published: October 2011

The viscosity of a non-Brownian suspension in simple shear cannot be theoretically predicted in the limit of the semidilute approximation, since it depends on the initial configuration. Batchelor and Green [J. Fluid Mech. 56, 401–427 (1972)] proved that the suspension viscosity can be expressed in power series of the solid volume fraction and the second order coefficient, b, resulted undetermined. On the contrary, experimentally Pasquino et al. [J. Rheol. 52, 1369–1384 (2008)] obtained a single steady state and estimated the value of b. We here numerically show that laminar mixing is able to induce a unique steady state also in the semidilute regime, since it is effective to break the closed orbits that may occur in these suspensions. To this end, we investigated the effect of the initial conditions on the steady state starting from seven different configurations ranging from the fully uniform and ordered one to the agglomerated one, passing through different random distributions. We, finally, numerically predict, via Stokesian dynamics, the coefficient b for the viscosity of a monolayer of rigid spherical particles suspended in a Newtonian fluid, undergoing simple shear flow obtaining b = 6.5 in a good agreement with both the data of Pasquino et al. and the theoretical predictions obtained under the hypothesis of absence of closed orbits [Wilson and Davis J. Fluid. Mech. 421, 339–367 (2000)]. It is also shown that the Cox–Merz rule is fulfilled by the suspensions that we have numerically studied, i.e., up to a volume fraction of about 0.17.
Neuroimmune Communication
Authors: Trakhtenberg Ephraim F. , Goldberg Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2011

Neurotransmitters link the nervous system to immune responses associated with inflammation and poststroke infections.
Curious Cosmic Speed-Up Nabs Nobel Prize
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: October 2011

Three researchers will share the Nobel Prize in physics for the dramatic observation that the universe's expansion is speeding up, which has changed the conceptual landscape in cosmology, astronomy, and particle physics.
Immunology Prize Overshadowed by Untimely Death of Awardee
Authors: Travis John
Published: October 2011

This year's Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine honors three scientists who unraveled key details of how the immune system becomes activated. But the tragic death of one of the winners grabbed most of the attention.
Detection of Staphylococcus aureus Isolates with Heterogeneous Intermediate-Level Resistance to Vancomycin in the United States
Authors: Richter Sandra S. , Satola Sarah W. , Crispell Emily K. , Heilmann Kristopher P. , Dohrn Cassie L. , Riahi Fathollah , Costello Andrew J. , Diekema Daniel J. , Doern Gary V.
Published: October 2011

The prevalence of heterogeneous intermediate-level resistance to vancomycin (hVISA) in
Staphylococcus aureus
was assessed by screening a large collection of recent isolates. Susceptibility testing by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute broth microdilution method and the Etest GRD (glycopeptide resistance detection) method (bioMérieux) was performed on 4,210 clinically significant
S. aureus
isolates obtained in 2009 from 43 U.S. centers. Isolates with Etest GRD-positive results for hVISA were evaluated further by repeat GRD testing and population analysis profiling–area under the curve (PAP-AUC) analysis. No VISA (vancomycin MIC, 4 to 8 μg/ml) or vancomycin-resistant (MIC ≥ 16 μg/ml) strains were detected. The Etest GRD screen for hVISA was initially positive for 68 isolates (1.6%; all by teicoplanin MIC ≥ 8 μg/ml at 24 or 48 h). Among those 68 isolates, 45 were reproducibly GRD positive. PAP-AUC testing confirmed only 11 isolates as hVISA (all had reproducible GRD-positive results). The 11 hVISA isolates were from nine medical centers and appeared genetically diverse (ten different PFGE types). The rates of resistance (including intermediate) for hVISA were as follows: oxacillin, 82%; erythromycin, 82%; clindamycin, 73%; levofloxacin, 73%; trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, 9%; and daptomycin, 9%. All hVISA isolates were susceptible to linezolid, tigecycline, and ceftaroline. Our data suggest that the overall prevalence of hVISA in the United States is low (0.3%). The hVISA isolates represented 10.5% of isolates with vancomycin MICs of 2 μg/ml and 0.1% of isolates with vancomycin MICs of 1 μg/ml. The positive predictive value of GRD Etest for hVISA was 16.2% for initial screen positive and 24.4% for reproducibly positive results.
A Novel Flucytosine-Resistant Yeast Species, Candida pseudoaaseri, Causes Disease in a Cancer Patient
Authors: Pfüller Roland , Gräser Yvonne , Erhard Marcel , Groenewald Marizeth
Published: October 2011

Some members of the genus
Candida
are among the most common human fungal pathogens and cause serious diseases especially in immunocompromised people. A yeast was isolated from a blood culture from an immunocompromised cancer patient who suffered from acute pneumonia. The growth characteristics of the yeast on CHROMagar Candida were similar to those of
Candida tropicalis
, whereas the API ID 32C system identified the yeast as
Candida silvicola
. On the basis of the nucleotide divergence in the D1/D2 domain of the 26S nuclear rRNA (nrRNA) gene, as well as the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) domain of the nrRNA gene region, a new species,
Candida pseudoaaseri
sp. nov. with type strain VK065094 (CBS 11170
T
), which was found to be closely related to
Candida aaseri
, is proposed. While
C. aaseri
strains were susceptible to all tested antifungals, the new species is resistant to flucytosine and may also be distinguished from
C. aaseri
by its ability to assimilate
l
-rhamnose, whereas its colony morphology on CHROMagar Candida may be helpful for differentiation.
Confirmation and Follow-Up of Neurocysticercosis by Real-Time PCR in Cerebrospinal Fluid Samples of Patients Living in France
Authors: Yera H. , Dupont D. , Houze S. , Ben M'Rad M. , Pilleux F. , Sulahian A. , Gatey C. , Andrieu F. Gay , Dupouy-Camet J.
Published: October 2011

Neurocysticercosis diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical, epidemiological, radiological, and immunological findings. We describe a real-time PCR assay for the confirmation of neurocysticercosis diagnosis in cerebrospinal fluid. The assay, tested on samples from nine patients living in France and diagnosed with neurocysticercosis, had a detection rate of 83.3% and 100% specificity.
White Spot Syndrome Virus Induces Metabolic Changes Resembling the Warburg Effect in Shrimp Hemocytes in the Early Stage of Infection
Authors: Chen I-Tung , Aoki Takashi , Huang Yun-Tzu , Hirono Ikuo , Chen Tsan-Chi , Huang Jiun-Yan , Chang Geen-Dong , Lo Chu-Fang , Wang Han-Ching
Published: October 2011

The Warburg effect is an abnormal glycolysis response that is associated with cancer cells. Here we present evidence that metabolic changes resembling the Warburg effect are induced by a nonmammalian virus. When shrimp were infected with white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), changes were induced in several metabolic pathways related to the mitochondria. At the viral genome replication stage (12 h postinfection [hpi]), glucose consumption and plasma lactate concentration were both increased in WSSV-infected shrimp, and the key enzyme of the pentose phosphate pathway, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), showed increased activity. We also found that at 12 hpi there was no alteration in the ADP/ATP ratio and that oxidative stress was lower than that in uninfected controls. All of these results are characteristic of the Warburg effect as it is present in mammals. There was also a significant decrease in triglyceride concentration starting at 12 hpi. At the late stage of the infection cycle (24 hpi), hemocytes of WSSV-infected shrimp showed several changes associated with cell death. These included the induction of mitochondrial membrane permeabilization (MMP), increased oxidative stress, decreased glucose consumption, and disrupted energy production. A previous study showed that WSSV infection led to upregulation of the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC), which is known to be involved in both the Warburg effect and MMP. Here we show that double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) silencing of the VDAC reduces WSSV-induced mortality and virion copy number. For these results, we hypothesize a model depicting the metabolic changes in host cells at the early and late stages of WSSV infection.
Vaginal Langerhans Cells Nonproductively Transporting HIV-1 Mediate Infection of T Cells
Authors: Ballweber Lamar , Robinson Barry , Kreger Allison , Fialkow Michael , Lentz Gretchen , McElrath M. Juliana , Hladik Florian
Published: October 2011

Although implied by other models, proof that Langerhans cells (LCs) in the human vagina participate in dissemination of infectious human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) has been lacking. Here, we show that LCs migrate from HIV-1-exposed vaginal epithelia and pass infectious virus to CD4
+
T cells without being productively infected themselves, and we point to a pathway that might enable HIV-1 to avoid degradation in vaginal LCs. Transport by migratory LCs to local lymphatics in a nonproductive but infectious form may aid HIV-1 in evasion of topical microbicides that target its intracellular productive life cycle.
The Cytomegaloviral Protein pUL138 Acts as Potentiator of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) Receptor 1 Surface Density To Enhance ULb′-Encoded Modulation of TNF-α Signaling
Authors: Le Vu Thuy Khanh , Trilling Mirko , Hengel Hartmut
Published: October 2011

Human cytomegalovirus is a ubiquitous herpesvirus that establishes lifelong latent infection. Changes in immune homeostasis induce the reactivation of lytic infection, which is mostly inapparent in healthy individuals but often causes overt disease in immunocompromised hosts. Based on discrepant tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 surface disposition between human cytomegalovirus AD169 variants differing in the ULb′ region, we identified the latency-associated gene product pUL138, which also is expressed during productive infection, as a selective potentiator of tumor necrosis factor receptor 1, one of the key receptors of innate immunity. Ectopically expressed pUL138 coprecipitated with tumor necrosis factor receptor 1, extended the protein half-life, and enhanced its signaling responses, thus leading to tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 hyperresponsiveness. Conversely, the targeted deletion ofUL138from the human cytomegaloviral genome strongly reduced tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 surface densities of infected cells. Remarkably, the comparison ofUL138deficiency to ULb′ deficiency revealed the presence of further positive modulators of tumor necrosis factor alpha signal transduction encoded within the human cytomegalovirus ULb′ region, identifying this region as a hub for multilayered tumor necrosis factor alpha signaling regulation.
Coagulation Factor IX Mediates Serotype-Specific Binding of Species A Adenoviruses to Host Cells
Authors: Lenman Annasara , Müller Steffen , Nygren Mari I. , Frängsmyr Lars , Stehle Thilo , Arnberg Niklas
Published: October 2011

Human species A adenoviruses (HAdVs) comprise three serotypes: HAdV-12, -18, and -31. These viruses are common pathogens and cause systemic infections that usually involve the airways and/or intestine. In immunocompromised individuals, species A adenoviruses in general, and HAdV-31 in particular, cause life-threatening infections. By combining binding and infection experiments, we demonstrate that coagulation factor IX (FIX) efficiently enhances binding and infection by HAdV-18 and HAdV-31, but not by HAdV-12, in epithelial cells originating from the airways or intestine. This is markedly different from the mechanism for HAdV-5 and other human adenoviruses, which utilize coagulation factor X (FX) for infection of host cells. Surface plasmon resonance experiments revealed that the affinity of the HAdV-31 hexon-FIX interaction is higher than that of the HAdV-5 hexon-FX interaction and that the half-lives of these interactions are profoundly different. Moreover, both HAdV-31–FIX and HAdV-5–FX complexes bind to heparan sulfate-containing glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) on target cells, but binding studies utilizing cells expressing specific GAGs and GAG-cleaving enzymes revealed differences in GAG dependence and specificity between these two complexes. These findings add to our understanding of the intricate infection pathways used by human adenoviruses, and they may contribute to better design of HAdV-based vectors for gene and cancer therapy. Furthermore, the interaction between the HAdV-31 hexon and FIX may also serve as a target for antiviral treatment.
ELECTRON DOPING EFFECTS ON ELECTRONIC AND MAGNETIC PROPERTIES IN Sr2FeReO6
Authors: LI Q. F. , WANG L. , SU J. L.
Published: October 2011

We have investigated the electronic and magnetic properties of electron-doped Sr 2-x La x FeReO 6 (x = 0.0, 0.25, 0.5) using first-principles density functional theory within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and GGA + U schemes. Our results reveal that the symmetry of the La -doped compounds is decreased from tetragonal I4/m for perfect sample to monoclinic P21/n. With increasing La content the absolute magnetic moment of the Re site increases distinctly and the doped electrons are considered to occupy mainly the down-spin Re 5d band from the band calculation. Electronic doping is found to enhance the Curie temperature (T c ) and stabilize the ferromagnetic half-metallic ground states of Sr 2 FeReO 6. And it is found that the increase of T c is mainly caused by the increase of ferromagnetic interaction between the Fe – O – Fe .
THE EFFECT OF HYDROGEN ON THE MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF FeV SUPERLATTICE
Authors: ELZAIN MOHAMED , AL BARWANI MUATAZ
Published: October 2011

The electronic and magnetic structures of a hydrogenated and hydrogen free superlattice of three iron monolayers and nine vanadium monolayers are studied using the first principle full-potential augmented-plane-wave method as implemented in WIEN2k package. The average and the local magnetic moments of the system are studied versus the hydrogen positions at the octahedral sites within the superlattice and also versus the filling of the vanadium octahedral location by hydrogen atoms. The local Fe magnetic moment and the average magnetic moment per iron atom are found to increase as the H position moves towards the Fe – V interface. On the other hand, the average magnetic moment per Fe atom is found to initially decrease up to filling by three H atoms and then increases afterwards. To our knowledge, this is the first reporting on the increase in the computed magnetic moment with hydrogenation. These trends of magnetic moments are attributed to the volume changes resulting from hydrogenation and not to electronic hydrogen–metal interaction.
Activation of Wnt3a signaling stimulates intestinal epithelial repair by promoting c-Myc-regulated gene expression
Authors: Liu Lan , Rao Jaladanki N. , Zou Tongtong , Xiao Lan , Smith Alexis , Zhuang Ran , Turner Douglas J. , Wang Jian-Ying
Published: October 2011

In response to mucosal injury, epithelial cells modify the patterns of expressed genes to repair damaged tissue rapidly. Our previous studies have demonstrated that the transcription factor c-Myc is necessary for stimulation of epithelial cell renewal during mucosal healing, but the up-stream signaling initiating c-Myc gene expression after injury remains unknown. Wnts are cysteine-rich glycoproteins that act as short-range ligands to locally activate receptor-mediated signaling pathways and correlate with the increased expression of the c-Myc gene. The current study tested the hypothesis that Wnt3a signaling is implicated in intestinal epithelial repair after wounding by stimulating c-Myc expression. Elevated Wnt3a signaling in intestinal epithelial cells (IEC-6 line) by coculturing with stable Wnt3a-transfected fibroblasts or ectopic overexpression of the Wnt3a gene enhanced intestinal epithelial repair after wounding. This stimulatory effect on epithelial repair was prevented by silencing the Wnt coreceptor LRP6 or by c-Myc silencing. Activation of the Wnt3a signaling pathway increased β-catenin nuclear translocation by decreasing its phosphorylation and stimulated c-Myc expression during epithelial repair after wounding. In stable Wnt3a-transfected IEC-6 cells, increased levels of c-Myc were associated with an increase in expression of c-Myc-regulated genes cyclcin D1 and cyclin E, whereas c-Myc silencing inhibited expression of cyclin D1 and cyclin E and delayed epithelial repair. These results indicate that elevated Wnt3a signaling in intestinal epithelial cells after wounding stimulates epithelial repair by promoting c-Myc-regulated gene expression.
Functional characterization and localization of a gill-specific claudin isoform in Atlantic salmon
Authors: Engelund M. B. , Yu A. S. L. , Li J. , Madsen S. S. , Færgeman N. J. , Tipsmark C. K.
Published: October 2011

Claudins are the major determinants of paracellular epithelial permeability in multicellular organisms. In Atlantic salmon ( Salmo salar L.), we previously found that mRNA expression of the abundant gill-specific claudin 30 decreases during seawater (SW) acclimation, suggesting that this claudin is associated with remodeling of the epithelium during salinity change. This study investigated localization, protein expression, and function of claudin 30. Confocal microscopy showed that claudin 30 protein was located at cell-cell interfaces in the gill filament in SW- and fresh water (FW)-acclimated salmon, with the same distribution, overall, as the tight junction protein ZO-1. Claudin 30 was located at the apical tight junction interface and in cell membranes deeper in the epithelia. Colocalization with the α-subunit of the Na+-K+-ATPase was negligible, suggesting limited association with mitochondria-rich cells. Immunoblotting of gill samples showed lower claudin 30 protein expression in SW than FW fish. Retroviral transduction of claudin 30 into Madin-Darby canine kidney cells resulted in a decreased conductance of 19%. The decreased conductance correlated with a decreased permeability of the cell monolayer to monovalent cations, whereas permeability to chloride was unaffected. Confocal microscopy revealed that claudin 30 was expressed in the lateral membrane, as well as in tight junctions of Madin-Darby canine kidney cells, thereby paralleling the findings in the native gill. This study suggests that claudin 30 functions as a cation barrier between pavement cells in the gill and also has a general role in cell-cell adhesion in deeper layers of the epithelium.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists suppress water intake independent of effects on food intake
Authors: McKay Naomi J. , Kanoski Scott E. , Hayes Matthew R. , Daniels Derek
Published: October 2011

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is produced by and released from the small intestine following ingestion of nutrients. GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists applied peripherally or centrally decrease food intake and increase glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. These effects make the GLP-1 system an attractive target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. In addition to these more frequently studied effects of GLP-1R stimulation, previous reports indicate that GLP-1R agonists suppress water intake. The present experiments were designed to provide greater temporal resolution and site specificity for the effect of GLP-1 and the long-acting GLP-1R agonists, exendin-4 and liraglutide, on unstimulated water intake when food was and was not available. All three GLP-1R ligands suppressed water intake after peripheral intraperitoneal administration, both in the presence of and the absence of food; however, the magnitude and time frame of water intake suppression varied by drug. GLP-1 had an immediate, but transient, hypodipsic effect when administered peripherally, whereas the water intake suppression by IP exendin-4 and liraglutide was much more persistent. Additionally, intracerebroventricular administration of GLP-1R agonists suppressed water intake when food was absent, but the suppression of intake showed modest differences depending on whether the drug was administered to the lateral or fourth ventricle. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of GLP-1 receptor agonists affecting unstimulated, overnight intake in the absence of food, the first test for antidipsogenic effects of hindbrain application of GLP-1 receptor agonists, and the first test of a central effect (forebrain or hindbrain) of liraglutide on water intake. Overall, these results show that GLP-1R agonists have a hypodipsic effect that is independent of GLP-1R-mediated effects on food intake, and this occurs, in part, through central nervous system GLP-1R activation.
Imatinib ameliorates renal morphological changes in Cyp1a1-Ren2 transgenic rats with inducible ANG II-dependent malignant hypertension
Authors: Graciano Miguel L. , Mitchell Kenneth D.
Published: October 2011

The present study was performed to assess the effects of the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor kinase inhibitor imatinib mesylate on the renal morphological changes occurring during the development of malignant hypertension in transgenic rats with inducible expression of the Ren2 gene [TGR(Cyp1a1Ren2)]. Arterial blood pressure was measured by radiotelemetry in male Cyp1a1-Ren2 rats during control conditions and during dietary administration of indole-3-carbinol (I3C; 0.3%) for 14 days to induce malignant hypertension. Rats induced with I3C ( n = 5) had higher mean arterial pressures (178 ± 4 vs. 109 ± 2 mmHg, P < 0.001) and increased urinary albumin excretion (Ualb; 13 ± 5 vs. 0.6 ± 0.2 mg/day) compared with noninduced rats ( n = 5). Chronic administration of imatinib (60 mg·kg−1·day−1in drinking water, n = 5) did not alter the magnitude of the hypertension (176 ± 8 mmHg) but prevented the increase in Ualb (1.6 ± 0.3 mg/day). Quantitative analysis of proliferating cell nuclear antigen using immunohistochemistry demonstrated increased proliferating cell number in cortical tubules (38 ± 5 vs. 18 ± 1 cells/mm2) and cortical interstitium (40 ± 7 vs. 13 ± 6 cells/mm2) of hypertensive rat kidneys. Renal cortical fibrosis evaluated by picrosirius red staining showed increased collagen deposition in kidneys of the hypertensive rats (1.6 ± 0.1 vs. 0.4 ± 0.1% of cortical area). Imatinib attenuated the increase in proliferating cell number in cortical tubules and interstitium (22 ± 5 vs. 38 ± 5 and 22 ± 6 vs. 40 ± 7 cells/mm2, respectively) and reduced the degree of collagen deposition (0.8 ± 0.2 vs. 1.6 ± 0.1%) in the kidneys of hypertensive rats. These findings demonstrate that the renal pathological changes that occur during the development of malignant hypertension in Cyp1a1-Ren2 rats involve activation of PDGF receptor kinase.
Genetic deletion of the P2Y2receptor offers significant resistance to development of lithium-induced polyuria accompanied by alterations in PGE2signaling
Authors: Zhang Yue , Pop Ioana L. , Carlson Noel G. , Kishore Bellamkonda K.
Published: October 2011

Lithium (Li)-induced polyuria is due to resistance of the medullary collecting duct (mCD) to the action of arginine vasopressin (AVP), apparently mediated by increased production of PGE2. We previously reported that the P2Y2receptor (P2Y2-R) antagonizes the action of AVP on the mCD and may play a role in Li-induced polyuria by enhancing the production of PGE2in mCD. Hence, we hypothesized that genetic deletion of P2Y2-R should ameliorate Li-induced polyuria. Wild-type (WT) or P2Y2-R knockout (KO) mice were fed normal or Li-added diets for 14 days and euthanized. Li-induced polyuria, and decreases in urine osmolality and AQP2 protein abundance in the renal medulla, were significantly less compared with WT mice despite the lack of differences in Li intake or terminal serum or inner medullary tissue Li levels. Li-induced increased urinary excretion of PGE2was not affected in KO mice. However, prostanoid EP3receptor (EP3-R) protein abundance in the renal medulla of KO mice was markedly lower vs. WT mice, irrespective of the dietary regimen. The protein abundances of other EP-Rs were not altered across the groups irrespective of the dietary regimen. Ex vivo stimulation of mCD with PGE2generated significantly more cAMP in Li-fed KO mice (130%) vs. Li-fed WT mice (100%). Taken together, these data suggest 1) genetic deletion of P2Y2-R offers significant resistance to the development of Li-induced polyuria; and 2) this resistance is apparently due to altered PGE2signaling mediated by a marked decrease in EP3-R protein abundance in the medulla, thus attenuating the EP3-mediated decrease in cAMP levels in mCD.
Chemotherapy Enhances Metastasis Formation via VEGFR-1–Expressing Endothelial Cells
Authors: Daenen Laura G.M. , Roodhart Jeanine M.L. , van Amersfoort Miranda , Dehnad Mantre , Roessingh Wijnand , Ulfman Laurien H. , Derksen Patrick W.B. , Voest Emile E.
Published: October 2011

Recent studies suggest that chemotherapy, in addition to its cytotoxic effects on tumor cells, can induce a cascade of host events to support tumor growth and spread. Here, we used an experimental pulmonary metastasis model to investigate the role of this host response in metastasis formation. Mice were pretreated with chemotherapy and after clearance of the drugs from circulation, tumor cells were administered intravenously to study potential “protumorigenic” host effects of chemotherapy. Pretreatment with the commonly used chemotherapeutic agents cisplatin and paclitaxel significantly enhanced lung metastasis in this model. This corresponded to enhanced adhesion of tumor cells to an endothelial cell monolayer that had been pretreated with chemotherapy in vitro. Interestingly, chemotherapy exposure enhanced the expression of VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR-1) on endothelial cells both in vitro and in vivo. Administration of antibodies targeting VEGFR-1 reversed the early retention of tumor cells in the lungs, thereby preventing the formation of chemotherapy-induced pulmonary metastases. The data indicate that chemotherapy-induced expression of VEGFR-1 on endothelial cells can create an environment favorable to tumor cell homing. Inhibition of VEGFR-1 function may therefore be used to counteract chemotherapy-induced retention of tumor cells within the metastatic niche, providing a novel level of tumor control in chemotherapy. Cancer Res; 71(22); 6976–85. ©2011 AACR.
Sonic Hedgehog Pathway Promotes Metastasis and Lymphangiogenesis via Activation of Akt, EMT, and MMP-9 Pathway in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Yoo Young A. , Kang Myoung Hee , Lee Hyun Joo , Kim Baek-hui , Park Jong Kuk , Kim Hyun Koo , Kim Jun Suk , Oh Sang Cheul
Published: October 2011

Activation of sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling has been implicated in progression of a variety of tumors. In this study, we elucidated a role for Shh in the invasion of gastric tumors and determined the mechanism by which Shh is regulated. Immunohistochemical analysis of 178 primary human gastric tumor biopsies indicated that Shh expression was positively correlated with lymph node metastasis, high lymphatic vessel density, and poor prognosis. In mouse xenograft models of human gastric cancer, enforced expression of Shh significantly enhanced the incidence of lung metastasis compared with nonexpressing controls. Mechanistic investigations revealed that phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt inhibition blocked Shh-induced epithelial–mesenchyme transition, the activity of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), and lymphangiogenesis, reducing tumor invasiveness and metastasis. Taken together, our findings establish that Shh signaling promotes the metastasis of gastric cancer through activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway, which leads to mesenchymal transition and MMP-9 activation. These findings offer preclinical validation of Shh as a candidate therapeutic target for treatment of metastatic gastric cancers. Cancer Res; 71(22); 7061–70. ©2011 AACR.
Design and Conduct of Intervention-Based Research among Cancer Survivors
Authors: Wolin Kathleen Y. , Colditz Graham A.
Published: October 2011

Intervention trials in cancer survivors play an important and growing role in complementing the wealth of knowledge obtained from observational studies about how lifestyle can improve clinical, physiologic, and psychological outcomes. As the number of intervention trials grows, attention to study design and reporting is essential to establishing a high-quality data pool from which to make evidence-based recommendations and guidelines. We highlight several key issues important to the design and interpretation of intervention trials in cancer survivors. Intervention dose and duration both matter in trials of cancer survivors, yet few trials have evaluated different intervention doses and few intervention trials with multiyear follow-up exist. Finally, there is a need for interventions both of longer duration and those that take a practical trials approach and reflect clinical practice to speed implementation within practice and improve outcomes for cancer survivors. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(10); 2078–84. ©2011 AACR.
Role of Genetic Susceptibility in Development of Treatment-Related Adverse Outcomes in Cancer Survivors
Authors: Bhatia Smita
Published: October 2011

Clear and unambiguous associations have been established between therapeutic exposures and specific complications. However, considerable interindividual variability is observed in the risk of developing an outcome for a given therapeutic exposure. Genetic predisposition and especially its interaction with therapeutic exposures can potentially exacerbate the toxic effect of treatment on normal tissues and organ systems, and can possibly explain the interindividual variability. This article provides a brief overview of the current knowledge about the role of genomic variation in the development of therapy-related complications. Relatively common outcomes with strong associations with therapeutic exposures, including cardiomyopathy, obesity, osteonecrosis, ototoxicity, and subsequent malignancies are discussed here. To develop a deeper understanding of the molecular underpinnings of therapy-related complications, comprehensive and near-complete collection of clinically annotated samples is critical. Methodologic issues such as study design, definition of the endpoints or phenotypes, identification of appropriate and adequately sized study population together with a reliable plan for collecting and maintaining high-quality DNA, and selection of an appropriate approach or platform for genotyping are also discussed. Understanding the etiopathogenetic pathways that lead to the morbidity is critical to developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies, optimizing risk-based health care of cancer survivors, thus minimizing chronic morbidities and improving quality of life. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(10); 2048–67. ©2011 AACR.
Biologic and Clinical Activity of Tivozanib (AV-951, KRN-951), a Selective Inhibitor of VEGF Receptor-1, -2, and -3 Tyrosine Kinases, in a 4-Week-On, 2-Week-Off Schedule in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Eskens Ferry A.L.M. , de Jonge Maja J.A. , Bhargava Pankaj , Isoe Toshiyuki , Cotreau Monette M. , Esteves Brooke , Hayashi Kunihiko , Burger Herman , Thomeer Maarten , van Doorn Leni , Verweij Jaap
Published: October 2011

Purpose: To assess the maximum tolerated dose (MTD)/dose-limiting toxicities (DLT), safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of tivozanib, a potent and selective oral VEGF receptor (VEGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor.

Experimental Design: Dose levels of 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg/d tivozanib for 28 days followed by 14 days of medication were explored in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Results: Forty-one patients were enrolled. Animal data incorrectly predicted toxicity, resulting in DLTs at the starting dose (2.0 mg) consisting of grade 3 proteinuria and hypertension and grade 3 ataxia. At 1.0 mg, no DLT was observed. At an intermediate dose (1.5 mg), 1 patient experienced DLT consisting of grade 3 hypertension. This dose was determined as the MTD. Of 10 additional patients treated at 1.5 mg, 1 patient each experienced grade 3 hypertension and grade 3 fatigue, and 2 patients experienced grade 3 and 4 transaminase elevation. In 12 additional patients treated at 1.0 mg, no DLT was observed. Pharmacokinetics displayed long absorption time, dose proportional exposure, and a half-life of 4.7 days. Plasma levels of VEGF-A and soluble VEGFR-2 showed dose-dependent increases and decreases, respectively. Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI indicated reduction in tumor perfusion. Clinical activity was observed in renal cell cancer, colorectal cancer, and other tumors.

Conclusion: Tivozanib was well tolerated with manageable side effects. The pharmacokinetics profile revealed that tivozanib was suitable for once-daily dosing. Encouraging and durable clinical activity was observed. The recommended daily dose of tivozanib in a 4-week-on and 2-week-off dosing regimen is 1.5 mg. Clin Cancer Res; 17(22); 7156–63. ©2011 AACR.