bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Castration induces autoantibody and T cell responses that correlate with inferior outcomes in an androgen‐dependent murine tumor model
Authors: Hahn Sara , Nesslinger Nancy J. , Drapala Robert J. , Bowden Mary , Rennie Paul S. , Pai Howard H. , Ludgate Charles , Nelson Brad H.
Published: June 2009

We recently reported that hormone therapy induces antigen‐specific autoantibody responses in prostate cancer patients. However, the contribution of autoantibody responses to clinical outcomes is unknown. We used an animal model to test the hypothesis that hormone therapy‐induced immune responses may be associated with delayed tumor recurrence. Male DD/S mice bearing established tumors from the androgen‐dependent Shionogi carcinoma line were castrated to induce tumor regression. Tumor‐specific autoantibody responses were measured by immunoblot, and the underlying antigen was identified by serological screening of a cDNA expression library. T cell responses were assessed by immunohistochemistry and IFN‐γ ELISPOT. Following castration, 97% of mice underwent complete tumor regression. Of these, 72% experienced tumor recurrence 18–79 days postcastration, whereas the remaining 28% remained tumor‐free for the duration of the experiment. In 55% of mice, castration induced autoantibody responses to an antigen identified as poly(A) binding protein nuclear 1 (PABPN1). Castration also induced PABPN1‐specific T cell responses, which were highly correlated to autoantibody responses, and this was accompanied by dense infiltration of tumors by CD3+ T cells 1–2 weeks after castration. Unexpectedly, mice that developed autoantibody and T cell responses to PABPN1 showed a higher rate and shorter latency of tumor recurrence. In mice with recurrent tumors, T cell responses to PABPN1 were still detectable; however, T cell infiltrates were restricted to the peripheral stroma of tumors. In conclusion, castration‐induced immune responses are associated with inferior outcomes in the Shionogi carcinoma model, raising concerns about the influence of treatment‐induced immune responses on clinical outcomes in humans. © 2009 UICC
A combinatorial study of inverse Heusler alloys by first‐principles computational methods
Authors: Gilleßen Michael , Dronskowski Richard
Published: June 2009

In continuation of our recent combinatorial work on 810 X2YZ full Heusler alloys, a computational study of the same class of materials but with the inverse (XY)XZ crystal structure has been performed on the basis of first‐principles (GGA) total‐energy calculations using pseudopotentials and plane waves. The predicted enthalpies of formation evidence 27 phases to be thermochemically stable against the elements and the regular X2YZ type. A chemical‐bonding study yields an inherent tendency for structural distortion in a majority of these alloys, and we predict the existence of the new tetragonal phase Fe2CuGa (P42/ncm; a = 5.072 Å, c = 7.634 Å; c/a ≈ 1.51) with a saturation moment of μ = 4.69 μB per formula unit. Thirteen more likewise new, isotypical phases are predicted to show essentially the same behavior. Six phases turn out to be the most stable in the inverse tetragonal arrangement. The course of the magnetic properties as a function of the valence‐electron concentration is analyzed using a Slater‐Pauling approach. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2010
There is no Drake/Larson linear space on 30 points
Authors: Betten Anton , Betten Dieter
Published: June 2009

A linear space is Drake/Larson if it contains at least two lines and there are no lines of size 2, 3 or 6. The existence or nonexistence of such linear spaces on v points is known except for v=30. The purpose of this article is to settle the remaining case on thirty points in the negative. This result relies on a combination of parameter calculation and exhaustive computer search. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 28: 48–70, 2010
Embedding partial odd‐cycle systems in systems with orders in all admissible congruence classes
Authors: Horsley Daniel , Pike David A.
Published: June 2009

For odd m, relatively little is known about embedding partial m‐cycle systems into m‐cycle systems of small orders not congruent to 1 or m modulo 2m. In this paper we prove that any partial m‐cycle system of order u can be embedded in an m‐cycle system of order v if v≥m(2u+1)+(m−1)/2, v is odd and \documentclass{article}\footskip=0pc\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$$\left( {_{2}^{V} } \right) \equiv 0\left( {\bmod {\rm }m} \right)$$\end{document}. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 18: 202–208, 2010
Neuroprotection in a 6‐hydroxydopamine‐lesioned Parkinson model using lactoferrin‐modified nanoparticles
Authors: Huang Rongqin , Han Liang , Li Jianhua , Ren Feiliang , Ke Weilun , Jiang Chen , Pei Yuanying
Published: June 2009

Background

Nonviral gene therapy of chronic degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD) is a great challenge as a result of the low tranfection efficiency of nonviral gene vectors. We previously constructed a lactoferrin (Lf)‐modified vector, which was demonstrated to be potential for brain gene delivery both in vitro and in vivo. In the present study, this type of vector was applied to load human glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor gene (hGDNF).

Methods

A rat PD model was constructed by the unilateral lesion of striatum using 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA). Lf‐modified nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared and characterized. Neuroprotective effects of Lf‐modified NPs were examined in the 6‐OHDA‐lesioned PD model via a regimen of multiple dosing intravenous administrations.

Results

The size of Lf‐modified NPs was 196 ± 10.1 nm, whereas the zeta potential value was 29.35 ± 3.27 mV. Lf‐modified NPs could protect themselves from heparin displacement and DNase digestion. The results of the neuroprotective evaluation show that increasing the number of injections of Lf‐modified NPs loading hGDNF improved locomotor activity, reduced dopaminergic neuronal loss and enhanced monoamine neurotransmitter levels in PD rats. Five injections of Lf‐modified NPs loading hGDNF exhibited much more powerful neuroprotection than a single injection, indicating the effectiveness and feasibility of multiple dosing administrations. The results of toxicity tests demonstrated that the dosage of NPs used in the present study was safe enough for brain gene delivery.

Conclusions

The findings obtained in the present study suggest that Lf‐modified NPs could be developed for potential nonviral gene therapy of chronic brain disorders. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lemierre's syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Karkos Peter D. , Asrani Sheetal , Karkos Christos D. , Leong Samuel C. , Theochari Evangelia G. , Alexopoulou Thalia D. , Assimakopoulos Assimakis D.
Published: June 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Lemierre's syndrome is characterized by a history of recent oropharyngeal infection, clinical or radiological evidence of internal jugular vein thrombosis, and isolation of anaerobic pathogens, mainlyFusobacterium necrophorum.It was once called the forgotten disease because of its rarity, but it may not be that uncommon after all. This review aims to provide physicians with an update on the etiology, management, and prognosis of Lemierre's syndrome.

Methods:

Systematic review using the terms: Lemierre's syndrome, postanginal septicemia, fusobacterium, internal jugular vein thrombosis. Inclusion criteria: English literature; reviews, case reports, and case series. Exclusion criteria: variants or atypical Lemierre's syndrome cases, negative fusobacteria cultures, and papers without radiological evidence of thrombophlebitis.

Results:

Eighty‐four studies fulfilled our inclusion criteria. The male to female ratio was 1:1, 2, and the ages ranged from 2 months to 78 years (median, 22 years). Main sources of infection were tonsil, pharynx, and chest. Most common first clinical presentation was a sore throat, followed by a neck mass and neck pain. The most common offending micro‐organism wasF. necrophorum. Treatment modalities used were antimicrobial, anticoagulant, and surgical treatment. Morbidity was significant with prolonged hospitalization in the majority of patients. The overall mortality rate was 5%.

Conclusions:

Lemierre's syndrome may not be as rare as previously thought. This apparent increase in the incidence may be due to antibiotic resistance or changes in antibiotic prescription patterns. Successful management rests on the awareness of the condition, a high index of suspicion, and a multidisciplinary team approach. Laryngoscope, 2009
Outpatient repair of superior semicircular canal dehiscence via the transmastoid approach
Authors: Deschenes Geoffrey R. , Hsu Daniel P. , Megerian Cliff A.
Published: June 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) syndrome has been a topic of much interest since its first description a decade ago. The symptoms of vertigo, autophony, and Tullio phenomenon have been well described as has the utility of surgical repair. The standard approach described for surgical repair of this problem has been to perform a middle fossa craniotomy followed by plugging of the superior semicircular canal. Recently, a transmastoid approach has been described as another surgical option in cases of SSCD, an alternative that could avoid the known risks of a middle fossa craniotomy. Herein we present further data for validation of the transmastoid SSCD repair technique. Additional factors leading to the successful treatment of these patients in the outpatient setting, an approach not previously described, are detailed.

Study Design:

Retrospective study of three separate operative procedures in two patients (one patient with bilateral SSCD) in an academic medical center is presented along with postoperative course and hearing status.

Methods:

Three ears with radiographic evidence of SSCD confirmed with vestibular evoked myogenic potentials after symptomatic presentation were studied. Each ear had preoperative and postoperative audiometry and outpatient surgery. SSCD was repaired in each patient using a transmastoid approach with specific anesthetic and surgical precautions taken to minimize nausea and vertigo.

Results:

Each patient was discharged from the outpatient unit with two cases returning home the day of surgery and one case after 23‐hour observation. All had resolution of their SSCD symptoms and postoperative hearing testing revealed no evidence of sensorineural hearing loss and resolution of related conductive components.

Conclusions:

The advantages noted by others with regards to the transmastoid repair of SSCD related symptomatology appear genuine and reproducible. In addition, this approach appears to offer potential freedom from a prolonged hospital admission with the potential for outpatient surgery in some circumstances without compromised clinical outcomes. Laryngoscope, 2009
Endoscopic transnasal approach to the clivus: A radiographic anatomical study
Authors: Burkart Collin M. , Theodosopoulos Philip V. , Keller Jeffrey T. , Zimmer Lee A.
Published: June 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Operative intervention of anterior skull base lesions is challenging. Various endoscopic surgical approaches have been described. The goal of the present study is to perform a radiographic analysis of the endoscopic transnasal approach to the clivus.

Study Design:

Anatomic study utilizing computed tomography (CT).

Methods:

High‐resolution surgical‐guidance CT images of the sinuses from 97 patients at a tertiary care medical center between 2002 and 2007 were evaluated. Axial and sagittal images were used to evaluate surgical access to the clivus. Multiple anatomical measurements were obtained and analyzed with imaging and statistical software.

Results:

Of the 97 imaging studies, there were 39 males and 58 females. The width of exposure of the clivus without removal of the septum was 2.7 cm (1.9–3.4 cm) and with removal of the bony septum was 3.6 cm (2.6–4.8 cm) (P < .001). No patients had complete exposure of the width of the clivus without the septum removed compared to 56 (58%) patients with the septum removed. Endoscopic exposure of the inferior and superior limits of the clivus was not limited in any images studied.

Conclusions:

The endoscopic transnasal approach to the clivus is a viable option in the treatment of anterior skull base lesions with the preservation of functional anatomy in select patients. A large portion of the population has limited lateral exposure secondary to the eustachian tube and the medial pterygoid plate with an endoscopic transnasal approach. Vertically, this approach allows complete access to the clivus in all patients studied. Laryngoscope, 2009
A new treatment option for laryngeal sensory neuropathy
Authors: Halum Stacey L. , Sycamore David L. , McRae Bryan R.
Published: June 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Laryngeal sensory neuropathy (LSN) may produce a variety of symptoms, including chronic cough, globus sensation, odynophonia, and/or odynophagia. Etiologies are often iatrogenic, viral, or idiopathic, although the diagnosis is generally one of exclusion. The aim of this study is to introduce pregabalin (Lyrica, Pfizer Inc., New York, NY) as a potential new therapy for LSN.

Study Design:

Retrospective clinical investigation.

Methods:

Charts were reviewed from 12 consecutive patients who were prescribed pregabalin for symptoms of LSN. Outcomes were reviewed by analyzing pre and post‐treatment questionnaires asking patients to rate symptoms on a scale from 0 to 5. Adverse effects and evidence of drug tolerance were also recorded.

Results:

Two patients did not tolerate pregabalin due to somnolence. Of those that tolerated the medication, mean pretreatment chief complaint symptom severity rating was 3.9, whereas mean post‐treatment symptom rating was 1.2 after 1 month of pregabalin therapy. None of the patients developed drug tolerance effects over time.

Conclusions:

Pregabalin therapy appears to be an effective treatment option for laryngeal sensory neuropathy. Future prospective studies are needed to compare outcomes between pregabalin and other medications as treatments for LSN. Laryngoscope, 2009
Low COX2 in tumor and upregulation in stroma mark laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma progression
Authors: Kourelis Konstantinos , Vandoros Gerasimos , Kourelis Theodoros , Papadas Theodoros , Goumas Panos , Sotiropoulou‐Bonikou Georgia
Published: June 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Invasive squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) of the larynx, like most solid tumors, are surrounded by a reactive stroma, in which cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the predominant cell type. This mesenchymal reaction may affect cancer progression multiply. The proinflammatory enzyme cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) has been correlated with head and neck cancer. This study aims to explore the impact of epithelial and stromal COX‐2 expression on SCC behavior.

Study Design:

Retrospective case review study performed in a tertiary health center institution.

Methods:

Double immunohistochemistry of COX‐2 and the CAF marker α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) was utilized in 97 laryngeal cancer patients. Follow‐up data were collected in 52 cases.

Results:

Low COX‐2 immunostaining in cancer cells was associated with advanced grade (P = .044) and shorter recurrence‐free period (P = .035). CAF expression was positively correlated with the grade of the infiltrating tumor (P = .030).

Conclusions:

In laryngeal SCCs, COX‐2 may exert its deleterious effect by alterations in the tumor microenvironment. CAF‐derived, COX‐2‐mediated paracrine influences on malignant cells possibly facilitate cancer progression. Overlooking the stromal remodeling could account for unsuccessful treatments of epithelial neoplasms. Laryngoscope, 2009
Two genetic variants in prostate stem cell antigen and gastric cancer susceptibility in a chinese population
Authors: Wu Chen , Wang Guanghai , Yang Ming , Huang Liming , Yu Dianke , Tan Wen , Lin Dongxin
Published: June 2009

Genetic factors play important roles in pathogenesis of human cancer. A recent genome‐wide association study (GWAS) linked two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in prostate stem cell antigen (PSCA), rs2294008C>T and rs2976392G>A, to risk of diffuse‐type of gastric cancer in Japanese and Korean populations. We hypothesized that these two SNPs are also associated with risk of gastric cancer in Chinese population. We examined genotypes and haplotypes of PSCA, rs2294008C/T and rs2976392G/A in 716 patients with cardia gastric carcinoma (CGC), 1020 patients with noncardia gastric carcinoma (NCGC), and 1020 controls. We found that individuals with at least one copy of the rs2294008T allele (CT or TT genotype) had an elevated risk for developing NCGC compared with those without this allele (OR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.13–1.61). Individuals with at least one copy of the rs2976392A allele (GA or AA genotype) had nonsignificantly increased risk for NCGC compared with those without this allele (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.01–1.43). Stratification analysis showed that the increased risk associated with the SNPs was restricted in female subjects. Moreover, the rs2294008T and rs2976392A allele carriers were predisposed to developing poorly differentiated and high stage NCGC at diagnosis. However, no such association was detected for CGC. In addition, we observed considerably lower allelic and genotype frequencies of these genetic variants in Chinese population compared with Japanese and Korean populations. These findings are in general consistent with previous GWAS and suggest that PSCA may play a role in the development of NCGC in Chinese population. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Deep brain stimulation effects on gait variability in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hausdorff Jeffrey M. , Gruendlinger Leor , Scollins Lisa , O'Herron Siobhan , Tarsy Daniel
Published: June 2009

The effects of subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) on fall risk in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) currently remain unclear. Although several gait parameters, such as gait speed, have shown improvement with DBS, some studies have reported an increased fall risk following DBS. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of bilateral DBS on gait variability, a marker of fall risk. The gait of 13 patients with idiopathic PD was analyzed to determine the influence of DBS, levodopa and both therapies together. Following treatment with both levodopa and STN DBS, subjects displayed improved gait speed, reduced gait variability (enhanced stability), and lower Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores. Although UPDRS scores improved with STN DBS alone, parallel improvements were not seen for gait variability. These findings suggest that different mechanisms may contribute to performance on UPDRS motor testing and gait stability in response to DBS. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
A parallel implicit/explicit hybrid time domain method for computational electromagnetics
Authors: Xie Z. Q. , Hassan O. , Morgan K.
Published: June 2009

The numerical solution of Maxwell's curl equations in the time domain is achieved by combining an unstructured mesh finite element algorithm with a cartesian finite difference method. The practical problem area selected to illustrate the application of the approach is the simulation of three‐dimensional electromagnetic wave scattering. The scattering obstacle and the free space region immediately adjacent to it are discretized using an unstructured mesh of linear tetrahedral elements. The remainder of the computational domain is filled with a regular cartesian mesh. These two meshes are overlapped to create a hybrid mesh for the numerical solution. On the cartesian mesh, an explicit finite difference method is adopted and an implicit/explicit finite element formulation is employed on the unstructured mesh. This approach ensures that computational efficiency is maintained if, for any reason, the generated unstructured mesh contains elements of a size much smaller than that required for accurate wave propagation. A perfectly matched layer is added at the artificial far field boundary, created by the truncation of the physical domain prior to the numerical solution. The complete solution approach is parallelized, to enable large‐scale simulations to be effectively performed. Examples are included to demonstrate the numerical performance that can be achieved. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transient heat conduction in a medium with multiple circular cavities and inhomogeneities
Authors: Gordeliy Elizaveta , Mogilevskaya Sofia G. , Crouch Steven L.
Published: June 2009

A two‐dimensional transient heat conduction problem of multiple interacting circular inhomogeneities, cavities and point sources is considered. In general, a non‐perfect contact at the matrix/inhomogeneity interfaces is assumed, with the heat flux through the interface proportional to the temperature jump. The approach is based on the use of the general solutions to the problems of a single cavity and an inhomogeneity and superposition. Application of the Laplace transform and the so‐called addition theorem results in an analytical transformed solution. The solution in the time domain is obtained by performing a numerical inversion of the Laplace transform. Several numerical examples are given to demonstrate the accuracy and the efficiency of the method. The approximation error decreases exponentially with the number of the degrees of freedom in the problem. A comparison of the companion two‐ and three‐dimensional problems demonstrates the effect of the dimensionality. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Winning a new priority for disabled children: the Every Disabled Child Matters campaign
Authors: Broach Steve , Coleman Ben , Franklin Louise
Published: June 2009

Over the past 4 years, the Every Disabled Child Matters campaign has secured almost £780 million in new funding for disabled children's services and has laid the foundation for addressing structural disadvantages for disabled children. Critical success factors for the campaign have included clear aims, a tight core strategy group, a leading political champion, widespread parliamentary support and effective mobilisation of disabled children and their families as campaigners. The campaign caught policymakers' attention at the right point to leverage significant support for a previously marginalised social group.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of electrospun metallic hybrid nanofibers via metallization
Authors: Wei Kai , Ohta Tomohiro , Kim Byoung‐Suhk , Kim Kwan‐Woo , Lee Keun‐Hyung , Khil Myung Seob , Kim Hak‐Yong , Kim Ick‐Soo
Published: June 2009

The metallized hybrid nanofiber webs were prepared by using a combined technology of electrostatic spinning and metallization. The electrospun polyurethane (PU) nanofibers were metallized with different thicknesses of copper layer via metal vapor deposition technique. The thickness of the copper layer, which ranges from 10 to 100 nm, was monitored and controlled. The resultant metallized hybrid nanofiber webs were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). FE‐SEM images demonstrated that the nanoscaled copper layers are well deposited on the surface of the PU nanofibers. TGA result indicated that the thermal stability of the metallized hybrid PU nanofibers was dramatically enhanced due to the barrier effects of thin metallic copper layer. WAXD data confirmed that the crystalline copper layers were well deposited onto the PU nanofibers. Moreover, the mechanical properties of the metallized hybrid PU nanofiber webs were increased with increase in the thickness of deposited copper layer. Unlike the organic PU nanofiber webs, it was observed that the metallized hybrid PU nanofiber webs showed higher conductive properties depending on the thickness of the deposited copper layer. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevention and treatment of cluster headache
Authors: Cohen Anna S , Goadsby Peter J
Published: June 2009

Cluster headache is an excruciatingly painful primary headache syndrome with rapid onset attacks that are relatively short, typically up to three hours. Management strategies involve avoidance of possible triggers to attacks, such as alcohol and naps, and pharmacological treatments aimed at either quickly aborting acute attacks, or preventive therapies to suppress the attacks entirely, or reduce their frequency, severity or duration. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Agomelatine: a new approach to depression
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: June 2009

In a Servier‐sponsored satellite meeting at the Latest Advances in Psychiatry Symposium in London in March, Professor Bill Deakin, Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Neuroscience and Psychiatry Unit at the University of Manchester, reviewed a recent addition to the antidepressant armamentarium ‐ agomelatine ‐ a drug that that shows a unique pharmacological profile. Medical writer, Mark Greener, reports. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Reproducibility and validity of digital inclinometry for measuring cervical range of motion in normal subjects
Authors: Prushansky Tamara , Deryi Orly , Jabarreen Bahaa
Published: June 2009

Background and Purpose. Measurements of cervical range of motion (CROM) have been extensively reported in the past decade employing simple (goniometers) as well as sophisticated (electro‐, magneto‐ and ultrasonography‐based) systems. The recent introduction of the simple, user‐friendly and relatively cheap digital inclinometer (DI) has opened a potentially new venue for measurement of this segment's motion. The purpose of the present study was to assess intra‐tester reproducibility of DI‐based findings as well as its validity in comparison to the ultrasonography‐based Zebris CMS 70P (Zebris Medizintechnik Gmbh™, Isny, Germany) for measuring CROM in normal subjects. Methods. Active CROM of healthy women (n = 15) and men (n = 15) aged 24.2(2.4) years was measured on two sessions, Test 1 and Test 2, spread over 7.2(±0.7) days apart. On Test 1, the six primary movements of the neck (flexion, F; extension, E; right and left lateral flexion, RLF and LLF; and right and left rotations, RR and LR) were measured using the DI and the Zebris. On Test 2, the same measurements were performed using the DI only. All measurements were conducted by the same tester, with the subject in the seated position. The only exception was DI measurement of cervical rotation that was performed in the supine position due to the DI gravity‐dependence, rendering DI measurements in the transverse plane irrelevant. Results. No significant differences were revealed between the two instruments with respect to the sagittal and frontal planes, whereas the DI‐based CROM in rotation was significantly greater then its Zebris‐based counterpart. The inter‐device interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for the frontal were 0.72 (RLF) and 0.62 (LLF), and 0.77 (F) and 0.83 (E). Poor correlations were indicated for the rotations. The intra‐tester reproducibility derived from the test–retest DI measurement indicated good to excellent reproducibility in all planes with ICCs ranging from 0.82 (LLF) to 0.94 (E). The Standard Error of Measurement ranged from 1.6° (RR) to 2.6° (F). Conclusion. DI‐based CROM measurements are reproducible and valid for recording sagittal and frontal plane motions in healthy subjects. The higher range in rotations, relative to the Zebris‐based findings, is most probably attributable to the test position. Being relatively cheap, portable and convenient for tester and subject alike, the DI seems to be an effective instrument for assessing CROM. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Grp94, the endoplasmic reticulum Hsp90, has a similar solution conformation to cytosolic Hsp90 in the absence of nucleotide
Authors: Krukenberg Kristin A. , Böttcher Ulrike M. K. , Southworth Daniel R. , Agard David A.
Published: June 2009

The molecular chaperone, Hsp90, is an essential eukaryotic protein that assists in the maturation and activation of client proteins. Hsp90 function depends upon the binding and hydrolysis of ATP, which causes large conformational rearrangements in the chaperone. Hsp90 is highly conserved from bacteria to eukaryotes, and similar nucleotide‐dependent conformations have been demonstrated for the bacterial, yeast, and human proteins. There are, however, important species‐specific differences in the ability of nucleotide to shift the conformation from one state to another. Although the role of nucleotide in conformation has been well studied for the cytosolic yeast and human proteins, the conformations found in the absence of nucleotide are less well understood. In contrast to cytosolic Hsp90, crystal structures of the endoplasmic reticulum homolog, Grp94, show the same conformation in the presence of both ADP and AMPPNP. This conformation differs from the yeast AMPPNP‐bound crystal state, suggesting that Grp94 may have a different conformational cycle. In this study, we use small angle X‐ray scattering and rigid body modeling to study the nucleotide free states of cytosolic yeast and human Hsp90s, as well as mouse Grp94. We show that all three proteins adopt an extended, chair‐like conformation distinct from the extended conformation observed for the bacterial Hsp90. For Grp94, we also show that nucleotide causes a small shift toward the crystal state, although the extended state persists as the major population. These results provide the first evidence that Grp94 shares a conformational state with other Hsp90 homologs.
Structural characterization of α‐synuclein in an aggregation prone state
Authors: Cho Min‐Kyu , Nodet Gabrielle , Kim Hai‐Young , Jensen Malene R. , Bernado Pau , Fernandez Claudio O. , Becker Stefan , Blackledge Martin , Zweckstetter Markus
Published: June 2009

The relation of α‐synuclein (αS) aggregation to Parkinson's disease has long been recognized, but the pathogenic species and its molecular properties have yet to be identified. To obtain insight into the properties of αS in an aggregation‐prone state, we studied the structural properties of αS at acidic pH using NMR spectroscopy and computation. NMR demonstrated that αS remains natively unfolded at lower pH, but secondary structure propensities were changed in proximity to acidic residues. The ensemble of conformations of αS at acidic pH is characterized by a rigidification and compaction of the Asp and Glu‐rich C‐terminal region, an increased probability for proximity between the NAC‐region and the C‐terminal region and a lower probability for interactions between the N‐ and C‐terminal regions.
Submicron resolution X‐ray diffraction from periodically patterned GaAs nanorods grown onto Ge[111]
Authors: Davydok Anton , Biermanns Andreas , Pietsch Ullrich , Grenzer Jörg , Paetzelt Hendrik , Gottschalch Volker , Bauer Jens
Published: June 2009

We present high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction pattern of periodic GaAs nanorods (NRs) ensembles and individual GaAs NRs grown catalyst‐free throughout a pre‐patterned amorphous SiNx mask onto Ge[111]B surfaces by selective‐area MOVPE method. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report about nano‐structure X‐ray characterization growth on non‐polar substrate. The experiment has been performed at home laboratory and using synchrotron radiation using a micro‐sized beam prepared by compound refractive lenses. Due to the non‐polar character of the substrate the shapes of NRs appear not uniform and vary between deformed hexagonal and trigonal in symmetry. Because the average diameter of NRs equals the experimental resolution certain cuts through slightly inclined edges or corners of individual NRs with lateral size of about 225 nm could be selected using spatially resolved reciprocal space mapping.
Fission processes following core level excitation in closo ‐1,2‐orthocarborane
Authors: Rühl E. , Hitchcock A. P. , Bozek J. D. , Tyliszczak T. , Kilcoyne A. L. D. , McIlroy D. N. , Knop‐Gericke A. , Dowben P. A.
Published: June 2009

Time‐of‐flight mass analysis with multi‐stop coincidence detection was used to study the multi‐cation ionic fragmentation of the closo carborane cage molecule closo ‐1,2‐orthocarborane (C2B10H12) following inner‐shell excitation in or above the B 1s regime. Electron ion coincidence spectra reveal the cationic products which are formed after core level excitation. Distinct changes in fragmentation pattern are observed as a function of excitation energy. Photoelectron–photoion–photoion coincidence (PEPIPICO) spectroscopy was used to study the dominant fission routes in the core level excitation regime. Series of ion pairs are identified, where asymmetric fission dominates, leading to ion pairs of different mass. Suitable fission and fragmentation mechanisms are discussed. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Identification of van Hove singularities in the GaN dielectric function: a comparison of the cubic and hexagonal phase
Authors: Cobet C. , Goldhahn R. , Richter W. , Esser N.
Published: June 2009

We present a detailed analysis of interband transition structures in the dielectric function of GaN. The dielectric function of the stable wurtzite and the metastable zinc blende phase were determined by means of synchrotron spectroscopic ellipsometry in the spectral range between 3 eV and 20 eV where the most significant structures of the dielectric function are located. In the hexagonal case, both the ordinary and extraordinary dielectric tensor component was measured on GaN films with M ‐plane/[1 $ \bar 1 $00] orientation. In a comparative discussion of the two hexagonal tensor components and the zinc blende dielectric function, all prominent absorption structures were assigned to specific interband transitions at high symmetry points in the Brillouin zone. The assignment considers the individual dipole transition probabilities depending on the crystal symmetry and the geometry of the measurement. Furthermore, a detailed theoretical band‐to‐band analysis of dielectric function features, published by Lambrecht et al. [1], was considered. In conclusion, we suggest a new labeling of absorption structures as used in classical III–V materials like GaAs, which reflects the origin of transition structures from specific points in the respective Brillouin zones. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Solid organ transplantation in HIV‐infected individuals: an update
Authors: Huprikar Shirish
Published: June 2009

In the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), the survival of patients with HIV has improved. Increasing morbidity and mortality are now related to chronic liver and kidney disease. Transplantation in HIV patients has been reported for nearly two decades and outcomes have generally improved in the HAART era. This review summarises the published experiences with liver and kidney transplantation in HIV patients. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting the similarity search performance of fingerprints and their combination with molecular property descriptors using probabilistic and information theoretic modeling
Authors: Vogt Martin , Nisius Britta , Bajorath Jürgen
Published: June 2009

Similarity searching is currently one of the most widely applied approaches to computationally screen large databases for novel active compounds, and molecular fingerprints are among the most popular search tools. Fingerprint searching has recently also been applied in chemical biology to identify compounds that are selective for a target within a group of related ones. In general, fingerprints are bit string representations of molecular structure and properties but their design, size, and complexity often vary substantially. Like essentially all similarity search tools, fingerprints display a strong compound class dependence in their ability to identify active molecules and distinguish them from other database compounds. In practical applications, this limitation makes it very difficult to select or prioritize fingerprints that are most suitable for a given search problem. We have previously (i) devised a Bayesian‐scoring scheme to combine fingerprints and molecular property descriptors for similarity searching and (ii) developed an information‐theoretic approach to predict active compound recall rates for fingerprint searching. Herein, we combine these methods and present an approach for the prediction of compound recall in search calculations using Bayesian screening with molecular property descriptors, fingerprints and their combination. For practical similarity search applications, this analysis is highly relevant because it makes it possible to identify search methods that are most likely to be successful for a given compound activity class and screening database. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Statistical Analysis and Data Mining 2: 123‐134, 2009
Africa is open for business: A continent on the move
Authors: Babarinde Olufemi A.
Published: June 2009

Until recently, it seemed African countries had not been on the radar screen of many non‐African companies with global operations, let alone constituted prominent components of their global supplychain networks. While several factors might have accounted for the marginalization of Africa by the global business community, perhaps the most critical was the seemingly incessant unflattering portrayal of the continent by Western media. African governments have been using a slew of tools and strategies to reform their economies and polities and to make the African business environment more business‐friendly, and the non‐African business community is availing itself of bursting business and investment opportunities in the continent. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On cracking direct‐sequence spread‐spectrum systems
Authors: Jo Youngho , Wu Dapeng
Published: June 2009

Secure transmission of information over hostile wireless environments is desired by both military and civilian parties. Direct‐sequence spread‐spectrum (DS‐SS) is such a covert technique resistant to interference, interception, and multipath fading. Identifying spread‐spectrum signals or cracking DS‐SS systems by an unintended receiver (or eavesdropper) withouta prioriknowledge is a challenging problem. To address this problem, we first search for the start position of data symbols in the spread signal (for symbol synchronization); our method is based on maximizing the spectral norm of a sample covariance matrix, which achieves smaller estimation error than the existing method of maximizing the Frobenius norm. After synchronization, we remove a spread sequence by a cross‐correlation based method, and identify the spread sequence by a matched filter. The proposed identification method is less expensive and more accurate than the existing methods. We also propose a zigzag searching method to identify a generator polynomial that reduces memory requirement and is capable of correcting polarity errors existing in the previous methods. In addition, we analyze the bit error performance of our proposed method. The simulation results agree well with our analytical results, indicating the accuracy of our analysis in additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel. By simulation, we also demonstrate the performance improvement of our proposed schemes over the existing methods. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exposure to Violence, Support Needs, Adjustment, and Motivators Among Guatemalan Humanitarian Aid Workers
Authors: Putman Katharine M. , Lantz Jeanette I. , Townsend Cynthia L. , Gallegos Autumn M. , Potts Amy A. , Roberts Rebecca C. , Cree Emily R. , de Villagrán Marina , Eriksson Cynthia B. , Foy David W.
Published: June 2009

Indigenous aid workers carry out the majority of humanitarian aid work, yet there is little empirical information available on their support needs in different contexts. Focus groups (N = 26: Study 1) and a survey (N = 137; Study 2) were conducted with Guatemalan aid workers to explore their exposure to violence, posttraumatic stress symptoms, burnout, support needs, and motivators. Participants reported experiencing an average of 13 events of community violence and 17% reported symptoms consistent with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Direct community violence exposure and levels of emotional exhaustion were positively related to PTSD symptoms, while levels of personal accomplishment were inversely related to PTSD symptoms. Expressed support needs, motivators and rewards for aid work in the face of adversity are also reported as potential protective factors for further exploration. Implications for training and support of aid workers in similar contexts are also suggested.
The HMG‐CoA Reductase Gene and Lipid and Lipoprotein Levels: the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Chen Yi‐Chun , Chen Yii‐Der I. , Li Xiaohui , Post Wendy , Herrington David , Polak Joseph F. , Rotter Jerome I. , Taylor Kent D.
Published: June 2009

HMG‐CoA reductase (HMGCR) is an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis. To investigate the contribution of the HMGCR gene to lipids and lipoprotein subfractions in different ethnicities, we performed an association study in the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). In total, 2,444 MESA subjects [597 African‐Americans (AA), 627 Chinese‐Americans (CHA), 612 European‐Americans (EA), and 608 Hispanic‐Americans (HA)] without statin use were included. Participants had measurements of blood pressure, anthropometry, and fasting blood samples. Subjects were genotyped for 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). After excluding SNPs with minor allele frequency <5%, a single block was constructed. The most frequent haplotype was H1 (41–56%) in all ethnic groups except AA (H2a, 44.9%). Lower triglyceride level was associated with the H2a haplotype in AA and H2 in HA. In HA, H4 carriers had higher levels of triglyceride and small low‐density lipoprotein (s‐LDL), and lower high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐c), while carriers with H7 or H8 had associations with these traits in the opposite direction. No significant association was discovered in both CHA and EA. The total variation for triglyceride that could be explained by H2 alone was 2.6% in HA and 1.4% in AA. In conclusion, HMGCR gene variation is associated with multiple lipid/lipoprotein traits, especially with triglyceride, s‐LDL, and HDL‐c. The impact of the genetic variance is modest and differs greatly among ethnicities.
Quality of Crude Oil Extracted from Aging Walleye Pollock (Theragra chalcogramma) Byproducts
Authors: Wu Ted H. , Bechtel Peter J.
Published: June 2009

The quality of crude oil was examined as a function of the temperature and delay time between collecting and processing the fish byproducts from a commercial cannery into crude oil. Extracts from pollock byproducts stored at 6 and 15 °C for up to 4 and 10 days was examined. Longer storage of byproducts resulted in higher free fatty acid (FFA) and an increase in retinol levels in the extracted crude oils. Primary and secondary oxidation assays consisting of peroxide value and thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances increased initially with storage time on day 1 followed by an unexpected decrease with storage time. Higher storage temperature resulted in greater FFA and retinol levels, but lower oxidation products in the crude oils. The tocopherol levels decreased with storage time of the byproducts with no differences between the storage temperatures. Eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and polyunsaturated fatty acids percentage remained similar in the extracted oils with the respective storage time or temperature treatments.
Prognostic implication of CDC25A and cyclin E expression on primary breast cancer patients
Authors: Mehdipour Parvin , Pirouzpanah Saeed , Sarafnejad Abdolfattah , Atri Morteza , Shahrestani Tahereh S. , Haidari Mojgan
Published: June 2009

Defect in cell cycle control is a hallmark character of cancer. We have investigated the association of Ki67 labeling index, cyclin E and CDC25A expressions with clinical follow‐up data in breast carcinomas. Flow cytometry was used to detect gene amplification of cyclins in 44 tumor tissue with invasive breast carcinomas. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard ratio test was used to show the correlations. Cyclin E or CDC25A were upregulated in 34% of the tumors. Among the whole total material, expression of cyclin E and of CDC25A were found upregulated in 31.9% and 39.4% of cells, respectively. Both CDC25A and cyclin E protein expression levels were correlated with Ki67 expression level (p < 0.001). In addition, the expression of CDC25A was associated significantly with poor survival (P = 0.028), whereas no correlation was found with cyclin E. These findings suggest a possible prognostic value for CDC25A as a cell cycle marker and may imply in characteristic of high risk breast cancer patients.
Scratch wound closure of C2C12 mouse myoblasts is enhanced by human platelet lysate
Authors: Ranzato Elia , Balbo Valeria , Boccafoschi Francesca , Mazzucco Laura , Burlando Bruno
Published: June 2009

The effect of a platelet lysate (PL) on muscle wound healing, based on in vitro scratch wound of C2C12 mouse myoblasts, has been investigated. Cell viability assays show that PL induced an increase in cell proliferation at concentrations of 1–20%, but was slightly cytotoxic at 100%. PL promoted wound closure after scratch wounding of cell monolayers. The p38 inhibitor SB203580 and the PI3K inhibitor, wortmannin, decreased the PL effect, whereas the ERK inhibitor, PD98059, did not. Transwell migration of cells was also increased by PL, and although SB203580 abrogated this effect, wortmannin reduced it, whereas PD98059 was ineffective. Western blot analyses of scratch wounded cells showed activation of AKT and p38, while in the presence of PL there was a faster and sustained activation of AKT and p38 (up to 6 h), and a transient activation of ERK1/2. Taken together, the data show that PL promotes C2C12 wound healing by enhancing cell proliferation and motility.
Development of the self-administered Spanish version of the Health of the Nation Outcome Scales for Older Adults: HoNOS65+A
Authors: Ausín B. , Muñoz M. , Pérez-Santos E.
Published: June 2009

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to develop a self-administered version of the Health of the Nation Outcome Scales for Older Adults (HoNOS65+) in Spanish – the HoNOS65+A – and to study its reliability and validity.

Methods

There are two phases in the study: construction of the HoNOS65+A and the study of its psychometric properties. In the second phase, 179 users of 10 services for older people of Madrid were interviewed. They completed the HoNOS65+A, the Spanish version of the HoNOS65+, and other instruments that evaluate similar constructs. Reliability (internal consistency with the other-administered HoNOS65+, intraclass) and validity (concurrent, discriminant, and criterion validity) were analyzed.

Results

High reliability indexes (intraclass correlation coefficients) were found for all the scales (HoNOS65+ and HoNOS65+A), except for items 4 and 6. Moreover, the HoNOS65+A has satisfactory concurrent (except 4, 6, and 9) and discriminant validity (except for items 4 and 10). Considering all these data and some theoretical points the items 4 and 6 have eliminated from the scale. Upon eliminating items 4 and 6, the analysis of the reliability (Cronbach's Alpha) and criterion validity (discriminant function among autonomous and assisted people) presents positive values.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the HoNOS65+A is a useful measure that does not assess a homogeneous area but instead different aspects of health and psychosocial functioning.