bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nowcasting and predicting data revisions using panel survey data
Authors: Matheson Troy D. , Mitchell James , Silverstone Brian
Published: June 2009

The qualitative responses that firms give to business survey questions regarding changes in their own output provide a real‐time signal of official output changes. The most commonly used method to produce an aggregate quantitative indicator from business survey responses—the net balance or diffusion index—has changed little in 40 years. This paper investigates whether an improved real‐time signal of official output data changes can be derived from a recently advanced method on the aggregation of survey data from panel responses. We find, in a New Zealand application, that exploiting the panel dimension to qualitative survey data gives a better in‐sample signal about official data than traditional methods. Out‐of‐sample, it is less clear that it matters how survey data are quantified, with simpler and more parsimonious methods hard to improve. It is clear, nevertheless, that survey data, exploited in some form, help to explain revisions to official data. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forecasting key macroeconomic variables from a large number of predictors: a state space approach
Authors: Raknerud Arvid , Skjerpen Terje , Swensen Anders Rygh
Published: June 2009

We use state space methods to estimate a large dynamic factor model for the Norwegian economy involving 93 variables for 1978Q2–2005Q4. The model is used to obtain forecasts for 22 key variables that can be derived from the original variables by aggregation. To investigate the potential gain in using such a large information set, we compare the forecasting properties of the dynamic factor model with those of univariate benchmark models. We find that there is an overall gain in using the dynamic factor model, but that the gain is notable only for a few of the key variables. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of aromatic amine phosphonato ester derivatives from the stereoselective reaction between triphenyl phosphite and dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate in the presence of derivatives of aromatic amines
Authors: Maghsoodlou Malek Taher , Heydari Reza , Hazeri Nourallah , Habibi‐Khorassani Sayyed Mostafa , Nassiri Mahmoud , Ghasemzadeh Marjan , Salehzadeh Jaber , Gharechaei Zahra
Published: June 2009

Aromatic amine phosphonato esters 4a–d were obtained in excellent yields from the 1:1:1 addition reaction between triphenyl phosphite and dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate in the presence of NH‐aromatic amines such as 2‐aminobenzophenone, 2‐aminoacetophenon, methyl‐2‐aminobenzoate, and 2‐aminobenzonitrile. In the recent works, the assignments of the configuration of 4a–d corresponding to the three‐bond carbon‐phosphorus coupling, 3Jpc, was determined on the basis of coupling constants by the Karplus equation as 2R*,3R*or 2S*,3S* while they were 2R*,3S* or 2S*,3R* in our previous works in the presence of same solvent. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 20:240–245, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20541
New definitions for new higher education institutions
Authors: Meyer Katrina A.
Published: June 2009

This chapter provides new definitions or descriptors for different types of virtual universities that have been proposed by several authors.
Western Governors University: Creating the first virtual university
Authors: Meyer Katrina A.
Published: June 2009

The Western Governors University underwent a change in mission during its early years.
A comparative case study of state‐level virtual universities
Authors: Xu Haixia , Morris Libby V.
Published: June 2009

How three state‐level virtual universities engage colleges and universities in their distance education activities.
On the edge of innovation: Transition and transformation in statewide administrative models for online learning
Authors: Garn Myk
Published: June 2009

State‐level virtual institutions have taken various and instructive paths as they developed.
What to expect from a virtual university
Authors: Vignare Karen
Published: June 2009

VU leaders stress the importance of strategic planning and understanding online learning as a business.
Deletion of interleukin-12p40 suppresses autoimmune cholangitis in dominant negative transforming growth factor β receptor type II mice #
Authors: Yoshida Katsunori , Yang Guo-Xiang , Zhang Weici , Tsuda Masanobu , Tsuneyama Koichi , Moritoki Yuki , Ansari Aftab A. , Okazaki Kazuichi , Lian Zhe-Xiong , Coppel Ross L. , Mackay Ian R. , Gershwin Eric M.
Published: June 2009

Our laboratory has reported that mice that express a dominant negative form of transforming growth factor β receptor restricted to T cells (dnTGFβRII) develop an inflammatory biliary ductular disease with elevated serum levels of interleukin (IL)-12p40 and other proinflammatory cytokines and antimitochondrial autoantibodies (AMAs) closely resembling human primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). We have used this mouse model to address the potential mechanisms of immunomodulation of liver disease by creating two unique genetic strains: IL-12p40 knockout (KO)-dnTGFβRII mice and IFN-γ KO-dnTGFβRII mice. The two colonies of genetically modified mice—and, for purposes of controls, the dnTGFβRII mice—were monitored for liver immunopathology, AMAs, and intrahepatic cytokine production. Disease expression in the IFN-γ KO-dnTGFβRII mice, including liver immunopathology, were similar to those of dnTGFβRII mice, whereas the IL-12p40 KO-dnTGFβRII mice had a dramatic reduction in histological autoimmune cholangitis and significant decreases in levels of intrahepatic proinflammatory cytokines, but similar levels of AMAs compared with dnTGFβRII controls. Conclusion: These data indicate that in this mouse model of PBC, signaling by way of IL-12p40 is an essential requirement for the development of autoimmune cholangitis. The results of these studies will play an important role in identifying pathways and reagents that will selectively inhibit IL-12 signaling for the outlining of future therapeutic strategies for human PBC. (Hepatology 2009.)
Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Children
Authors: Carter-Kent Christine , Yerian Lisa M. , Brunt Elizabeth M. , Angulo Paul , Kohli Rohit , Ling Simon C. , Xanthakos Stavra A. , Whitington Peter F. , Charatcharoenwitthaya Phunchai , Yap Jason , Lopez Rocio , McCullough Arthur J. , Feldstein Ariel E.
Published: June 2009

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may have distinct histological features in children and adults, but to date limited data are available on the spectrum and significance of histological lesions in pediatric patients. We conducted a multicenter study of children with well-characterized, biopsy-proven NAFLD to (1) assess the presence and significance of a constellation of histological lesions and (2) identify clinical and laboratory predictors of disease severity. One hundred thirty children with NAFLD seen from 1995 to 2007 in five centers in the United States and Canada were studied. Clinical and laboratory data were collected. Slides stained with hematoxylin-eosin and trichrome were evaluated by two liver pathologists. The NAFLD activity score (NAS) and the pattern of liver injury (type 1 or adult versus type 2 or pediatric nonalcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH]) were recorded. Fibrosis was staged using a published 7-point scale. The median age was 12 years (range, 4-18 years); 63% were boys, and 52% were Caucasian. Fibrosis was present in 87% of patients; of these, stage 3 (bridging fibrosis) was present in 20%. No patient had cirrhosis. The median NAS was 4. Overlapping features of both type 1 (adult pattern) and type 2 (pediatric pattern) NASH were found in 82% of patients. Compared with patients with no or mild fibrosis, those with significant fibrosis were more likely to have higher lobular and portal inflammation scores (

P

< 0.01), perisinusoidal fibrosis (

P

< 0.001), and NAS ≥5 (

P

< 0.005). Serum aspartate aminotransferase levels were the only clinical or laboratory data that independently predicted severity of fibrosis (

P

= 0.003).

Conclusion:

Our results highlight the limitations of published proposals to classify pediatric NAFLD, and identified histological lesions associated with progressive disease. (Hepatology 2009.)
Advanced Periductal Fibrosis from Infection with the Carcinogenic Human Liver Fluke Opisthorchis viverrini Correlates with Elevated Levels of Interleukin-6† ‡
Authors: Sripa Banchob , Mairiang Eimorn , Thinkhamrop Bandit , Laha Thewarach , Kaewkes Sasithorn , Sithithaworn Paiboon , Tessana Smarn , Loukas Alex , Brindley Paul J. , Bethony Jeffrey M.
Published: June 2009

More than 750 million people are at risk of infection with foodborne liver flukes.

Opisthorchis viverrini

is considered among the most important of these parasites, due to its strong association with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA).

O. viverrini

infection results in a chronic inflammatory challenge to the host, which can lead to advanced, pathogen-specific disease sequelae including obstructive jaundice, hepatomegaly, cholecystitis, as well as CCA. However, before disease sequelae are apparent, important inflammatory changes to the liver can be detected early during

O. viverrini

infection. In a case-control study involving 328 men and women with

O. viverrini

infection, we determined the presence of advanced periductal fibrosis in asymptomatic,

O. viverrini
-infected individuals and then measured cytokine responses to

O. viverrini

excretory/secretory products (ES). In the 200 participants with advanced periductal fibrosis (cases), levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) to

O. viverrini

ES were 8 times higher than levels of the 128

O. viverrini

-infected individuals without advanced periductal fibrosis (controls). Moreover, elevated IL-6 to parasite ES was associated with increased risk of advanced periductal fibrosis by 63% in a model adjusted for sex and age. The risk of advanced periductal fibrosis was also found to increase with higher levels of IL-6: individuals in the third quartile of IL-6-ES production had a 127% higher risk of developing advanced periductal fibrosis than individuals in the first quartile of IL-6 production.

O. viverrini

-infected individuals with advanced periductal fibrosis showed other hepatobiliary abnormalities, including reduced gallbladder contractility and the presence of gallbladder sludge.

Conclusion:

These data strongly implicate a role for parasite-specific IL-6 in the pathogenesis of advanced periductal fibrosis in opisthorchiasis, with possible links to other hepatobiliary abnormalities, including CCA. (Hepatology 2009.)
Fast Fibrosis Progression Between Repeated Liver Biopsies in Patients Coinfected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Hepatitis C Virus†
Authors: Macías Juan , Berenguer Juan , Japón Miguel A. , Girón José A. , Rivero Antonio , López-Cortés Luis F. , Moreno Ana , González-Serrano Mercedes , Iribarren José A. , Ortega Enrique , Miralles Pilar , Mira José A. , Pineda Juan A.
Published: June 2009

A few studies have assessed the observed fibrosis progression between serial liver biopsies (LB) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) / hepatitis C virus (HCV)-coinfected patients. Approximately half of the patients progressed at least one fibrosis stage over a short period of time. The risk factors for this fast progression need clarification. Because of this, we evaluated the observed fibrosis progression rates of HIV/HCV-coinfected patients and the risk factors for accelerated progression. Overall, 135 HIV-infected patients with positive serum HCV RNA, without other possible causes of liver disease, who underwent two LB, separated at least by 1 year, were included in this retrospective cohort study. The median (Q1-Q3) time between both LBs was 3.3 (2.0-5.2) years. Patients showed the following changes in fibrosis stage: regression ≥1 stage: 23 (17%), no change: 52 (39%), progression 1 stage: 38 (28%), and progression ≥2 stages: 22 (16%). Seventeen (13%) patients had cirrhosis in the second biopsy. Factors independently associated with progression ≥1 stage were undetectable plasma HIV RNA during the follow-up (relative risk [RR] [95% confidence interval, 95% CI] 0.61 [0.39-0.93],

P

= 0.03), moderate-to-severe lobular necroinflammation (1.77 [1.16-2.7],

P

= 0.009), time between biopsies (1.11 [1.08-1.2],

P

= 0.01), and end of treatment response to anti-HCV therapy (0.41 [0.19-0.88],

P

= 0.02).

Conclusion:

Fibrosis progresses with high frequency in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients over a period of time of 3 years. Absent-to-mild lobular necroinflammation at baseline, achievement of response with anti-HCV treatment, and effective antiretroviral therapy are associated with slower fibrosis progression. (Hepatology 2009.)
A Novel Nonsynonymous Variant of Matrix Metalloproteinase-7 Confers Risk of Liver Cirrhosis†
Authors: Hung Tzu-Min , Chang Shin C. , Yu Wei-Hsuan , Wang Yu-Wen , Huang Cheng , Lu Shao-Chun , Lee Po-Huang , Chang Ming-Fu
Published: June 2009

Liver cirrhosis is characterized by progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix following chronic liver injuries. In the extracellular space, the constant turnover of liver matrix is regulated by the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) class of enzyme. To assess whether genetic variations in MMP would result in diversity of liver cirrhosis, a case-control study of 320 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, with or without cirrhosis, was conducted. Ten single-nucleotide polymorphism markers from four potential fibrosis-associated genes were selected for genotyping. Among these genes, a nonsynonymous single-nucleotide polymorphism which generates the variation of Gly-137 and Asp-137 in the

MMP-7

gene was found to be strongly associated with the development of liver cirrhosis. In contrast to MMP-7(Gly-137) that predominantly secretes out into the cell culture medium, the cirrhosis-associated MMP-7(Asp-137) variant is preferentially localized on the extracellular membranes where it exerts its proteolytic activity on pericellular substrates. Functional analysis demonstrated an increased ability of the MMP-7(Asp-137) variant to associate with the cell surface CD151 molecule. In wound-healing and Boyden chamber assays, cell motility was specifically enhanced with the expression of MMP-7(Asp-137) as compared to the cells expressing MMP-7(Gly-137). These results demonstrate that the MMP-7(Asp-137) variant confers a gain-of-function phenotype for MMP-7.

Conclusion:

We have identified a novel genetic association of MMP-7(Asp-137) variant with liver cirrhosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Whether the MMP-7 variant can be a new marker for liver cirrhosis will be further studied. (Hepatology 2009.)
The novel HSP90 inhibitor STA‐1474 exhibits biologic activity against osteosarcoma cell lines
Authors: McCleese Jennifer K. , Bear Misty D. , Fossey Stacey L. , Mihalek Robert M. , Foley Kevin P. , Ying Weiwen , Barsoum James , London Cheryl A.
Published: June 2009

Osteosarcoma (OSA), the most common malignant bone tumor in dogs and children, exhibits a similar clinical presentation and molecular biology in both species. Unfortunately, 30–40% of children and 90% of dogs still die of disease despite aggressive therapy. The purpose of this study was to test the biologic activity of a novel heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) inhibitor, STA‐1474, against OSA. Canine and human OSA cell lines and normal canine osteoblasts were treated with STA‐1474 and evaluated for effects on proliferation (CyQuant), apoptosis (Annexin V, PARP cleavage, caspase 3/7 activation) and known HSP90 client proteins. HSP90 was immunoprecipitated from normal and malignant osteoblasts and Western blotting for co‐chaperones was performed. Mice bearing canine OSA xenografts were treated with STA‐1474, and tumors samples were evaluated for caspase‐3 activation and loss of p‐Akt/Akt. Treatment with STA‐1474 promoted loss of cell viability, inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in OSA cell lines. STA‐1474 and its active metabolite STA‐9090 also demonstrated increased potency compared to 17‐AAG. STA‐1474 exhibited selectivity for OSA cells versus normal canine osteoblasts, and HSP90 co‐precipitated with co‐chaperones p23 and Hop in canine OSA cells but not in normal canine osteoblasts. Furthermore, STA‐1474 downregulated the expression of p‐Met/Met, p‐Akt/Akt and p‐STAT3. Finally, STA‐1474 induced tumor regression, caspase‐3 activation and downregulation of p‐Met/Met and p‐Akt/Akt in OSA xenografts. Together, these data suggest that HSP90 represents a relevant target for therapeutic intervention in OSA. © 2009 UICC
FoxP3+ regulatory T cells are distinct from leukemia cells in HTLV‐1–associated adult T‐cell leukemia
Authors: Toulza Frederic , Nosaka Kisato , Takiguchi Masafumi , Pagliuca Tony , Mitsuya Hiroaki , Tanaka Yuetsu , Taylor Graham P. , Bangham Charles R.M.
Published: June 2009

Human T‐lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) is the causative agent of adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL). It has been postulated that ATLL cells might act as regulatory T cells (Tregs) which, in common with ATLL cells, express both CD25 and FoxP3, and so contribute to the severe immune suppression typical of ATLL. We report here that the frequency of CD25+ cells varied independently of the frequency of FoxP3+ cells in both a cross‐sectional study and in a longitudinal study of 2 patients with chronic ATLL. Furthermore, the capacity of ATLL cells to suppress proliferation of heterologous CD4+CD25− cells correlated with the frequency of CD4+ FoxP3+ cells but was independent of CD25 expression. Finally, the frequency of CD4+FoxP3+ cells was inversely correlated with the lytic activity of HTLV‐1‐specific CTLs in patients with ATLL. We conclude that ATLL is not a tumor of FoxP3+ regulatory T cells, and that a population of FoxP3+ cells distinct from ATLL cells has regulatory functions and may impair the cell‐mediated immune response to HTLV‐1 in patients with ATLL. © 2009 UICC
Antagonism of chemokine receptor CXCR3 inhibits osteosarcoma metastasis to lungs
Authors: Pradelli Emmanuelle , Karimdjee‐Soilihi Babou , Michiels Jean‐François , Ricci Jean‐Ehrland , Millet Marie‐Ange , Vandenbos Fanny , Sullivan Timothy J. , Collins Tassie L. , Johnson Michael G. , Medina Julio C. , Kleinerman Eugenie S. , Schmid‐Alliana Annie , Schmid‐Antomarchi Heidy
Published: June 2009

Metastasis continues to be the leading cause of mortality for patients with cancer. Several years ago, it became clear that chemokines and their receptors could control the tumor progress. CXCR3 has now been identified in many cancers including osteosarcoma and CXCR3 ligands were expressed by lungs that are the primary sites to which this tumor metastasize. This study tested the hypothesis that disruption of the CXCR3/CXCR3 ligands complexes could lead to a decrease in lungs metastasis. The experimental design involved the use of the CXCR3 antagonist, AMG487 and 2 murine models of osteosarcoma lung metastases. After tail vein injection of osteosarcoma cells, mice that were systematically treated with AMG487 according to preventive or curative protocols had a significant reduction in metastatic disease. Treatment of osteosarcoma cells in vitro with AMG487 led to decreased migration, decreased matrix metalloproteinase activity, decreased proliferation/survival and increased caspase‐independent death. Taken together, our results support the hypothesis that CXCR3 and their ligands intervene in the initial dissemination of the osteosarcoma cells to the lungs and stimulate the growth and expansion of the metastatic foci in later stages. Moreover, these studies indicate that targeting CXCR3 may specifically inhibit tumor metastasis without adversely affecting antitumoral host response. © 2009 UICC
Synergistic effect of HLA class II loci and cytokine gene polymorphisms on the risk of gastric cancer in Japanese patients with Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Ando Takashi , Ishikawa Takeshi , Kato Haruki , Yoshida Norimasa , Naito Yuji , Kokura Satoshi , Yagi Nobuaki , Takagi Tomohisa , Handa Osamu , Kitawaki Jo , Nakamura Naoto , Hasegawa Goji , Fukui Michiaki , Imamoto Eiko , Nakamura Chie , Oyamada Hirokazu , Isozaki Yutaka , Matsumoto Naohito , Nagao Yasuyuki , Okita Mika , Nakajima Yoshihiro , Kurokawa Manabu , Nukina Masafumi , Ohta Mitsuhiro , Mizuno Shigeto , Ogata Masakazu , Obayashi Hiroshi , Park Hyohun , Kitagawa Yoshihiro , Nakano Koji , Yoshikawa Toshikazu
Published: June 2009

It has been reported that polymorphisms of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes and several cytokine genes are associated with an increased risk of developing gastric cancer (GC). However, the results of studies from different geographic regions, ethnic groups and study groups are inconsistent. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of H. pylori infection and host genetic factors on GC susceptibility in Japanese patients with GC. We analyzed genotypes for HLA class I and II, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐1 receptor, IL‐4, IL‐4Rα and IL‐10 in 330 H. pylori‐infected noncardia patients with GC and 190 H. pylori‐infected nonulcer dyspeptic controls. Haplotype analyses indicated that the frequencies of the HLA DRB1*0405 and DQB1*0401 alleles were increased in the patients with intestinal‐type GC when compared with controls (both DRB1*0405 and DQB1*0401: p = 0.015, OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.09–2.26), but the changes were not statistically significant after correction for multiple comparisons. None of the cytokine gene polymorphisms were associated with GC susceptibility, whether patients with GC were analyzed as a group according to the histological subtype. Of interest was the comparison of controls and patients with intestinal‐type GC. The frequency of an IL‐10‐592AA homozygote showing concomitant carriage of the HLA DRB1*0405‐DQB1*0401 haplotype was significantly higher in patients with intestinal‐type GC (χ2 = 6.369, p = 0.0116, pc = 0.0464, OR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.21–4.48). Our results suggest that the HLA class II and IL‐10‐592A/C polymorphisms synergistically affect the susceptibility to GC development of H. pylori‐infected individuals in the Japanese population. © 2009 UICC
Serum cholesterol levels in relation to the incidence of cancer: The JPHC study cohorts
Authors: Iso Hiroyasu , Ikeda Ai , Inoue Manami , Sato Shinichi , Tsugane Shoichiro
Published: June 2009

An inverse association between serum total cholesterol and cancer mortality cast a controversy for cause or result of low cholesterol on cancer risk. Therefore, we examined a total of 33,368 Japanese men and women aged 40–69 years, who were free of prior diagnosis of cancer and cardiovascular disease, undertook serum total cholesterol measurement and completed a food frequency questionnaire between 1990 and 1994. They were followed to ascertain incident total and major sites of cancer until the end of 2004 to examine sex‐specific associations between cholesterol and cancer risk by incident time, stage and virus infection. After 412,714 person‐years of follow‐up, 2,728 incident cancers were documented. Serum total cholesterol levels were inversely associated with risk of total cancer in men, with strong inverse associations with stomach cancer in men and liver cancer in both sexes. After exclusion for first 3‐year incident cases and advanced cases with metastasis, the inverse association diminished for total and stomach cancers but remained for liver cancer. The multivariable hazard ratios (95% CI) for serum total cholesterol <4.14 mmol/l versus 4.65–5.16 mmol/l were 1.15(0.92–1.43); p‐trend across the overall cholesterol categories = 0.25 for total cancer and 1.18(0.79–1.75), p‐trend = 0.04 for stomach cancer and 5.12(1.65–15.9), p‐trend = 0.0011 for liver cancer in men, and 5.73(1.57–20.9), p‐trend = 0.0007 for liver cancer in women. The sustained excess risk of liver cancer associated with low cholesterol was observed regardless of hepatitis‐C‐virus infection and drinking habits. Although the inverse association for liver cancer remained to be examined further, our findings do not support that low serum total cholesterol levels increase risks of total cancer and other major sites. © 2009 UICC
The human 1‐8D gene (IFITM2) is a novel p53 independent pro‐apoptotic gene
Authors: Daniel‐Carmi Vered , Makovitzki‐Avraham Efrat , Reuven Eliran‐Moshe , Goldstein Ido , Zilkha Noga , Rotter Varda , Tzehoval Esther , Eisenbach Lea
Published: June 2009

The human 1‐8 interferon inducible gene family consists of at least 3 functional genes; 9‐27, 1‐8D and 1‐8U, which are all linked on an 18‐kb fragment of chromosome 11 and are highly homologous. It has recently been shown by us and others that the 1‐8D gene is overexpressed in colon carcinoma. Here, we show, by sequence comparison of the 1‐8D in pairs of tumor/normal colon tissues, the existence of 6 different alleles, containing single‐nucleotide polymorphisms with no mutations. Transformation assays revealed a possible role for the 1‐8D gene as a transformation inhibitor. Further, transient expression of the human 1‐8D gene in multiple mammalian cell lines showed accumulation of cells in the G1 phase followed by elevation in the subG1 phase. SubG1 elevation was confirmed as apoptosis by Annexin‐V binding assays and transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling assays. Moreover, knock‐down of 1‐8D provided partial protection from Etoposide and UV‐induced apoptosis. The induction of apoptosis by 1‐8D is dependent on caspase activities but not on p53 expression. Although 1‐8D induces apoptosis independently of p53, p53 expression downregulates 1‐8D protein expression. Our data suggest a role for the 1‐8D gene as a novel pro‐apoptotic gene that will provide new insights into the regulated cellular pathways to death. © 2009 UICC
Structural study of the salivary glands of Anocentor nitens (Acari: Ixodidae) during the feeding cycle
Authors: da Silva Vanderlei C. , Pinheiro Nadja L. , Ribeiro Vinícius R. , de Carvalho Raimundo W. , Scherer Paulo O. , dos Santos Marco Antônio J. , dos Santos‐Mallet Jacenir Reis
Published: June 2009

The salivary glands of Anocentor nitens (Neumann,1897) occur in pairs and are located in the anterolateral region of the general cavity, with milky white color and approximately equal sizes. They consist of a secretory portion and an excretion duct. In some glandular acini, all the cells had a basophilic appearance they were stained by hematoxylin, whereas others presented cells with different staining affinities. In this work, we describe the variations observed in these glands during the feeding cycle of ticks [after feeding (0 h) and successively at 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, and 144 h]. The cells stained by hematoxylin were shown to be more reactive to Alcian blue, thus demonstrating the presence of acid glycosaminoglycans, whereas those stained using eosin presented weak or no reaction. A strong reaction was found by the use of the periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS) technique, thereby suggesting the presence of glycogen and/or glycoconjugates containing hexose, confirmed by using salivary amylase before PAS, with partial destaining of the slides. Continuing presence of residual staining in these cells suggests the presence of glycoconjugates containing hexose. Cells with nuclei of circular outline and few granules (of different sizes) were found in type II acini, 72 h after collection. Type I acini presented wide lumina and walls composed of larger numbers of cells of cubic to cylindrical shape. The pronounced degranulation shown in this study over the course of the feeding cycle was associated with the release of substances for oviposition. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Self‐assembled monolayers of DNA on cysteamine modified Au(111) surface: Atomic force microscopy study
Authors: Song Yonghai , Lian Wenping , Zhao Sucai , Wang Li , Li Zhuang
Published: June 2009

The λ‐DNA molecules self‐assemble on cysteamine‐modified gold (111) surface to form flat‐lying self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs). The formation kinetics of such DNA SAMs is studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM). AFM results show that DNA molecules do not arrange themselves on cysteamine‐modified gold (111) surface into a well‐ordered monolayer. It is also found that the surface density of DNA monolayer does not increase as the DNA concentration increases. The high temperature of DNA solution and the immersing in ultrapure water produce some obvious DNA bundles. Whereas divalent cations in DNA solution result in the formation of more compact DNA films. The obtained information may be useful for practical application of the DNA films and further theoretical studies. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ionic liquid catalyzed expeditious synthesis of 2‐aryl‐2,3‐dihydroquinolin‐4(1H)‐ones and 2‐aryl‐2,3‐dihydro‐4H‐chromen‐4‐ones under microwave irradiation
Authors: Kumar Dalip , Patel Gautam , Kumar Anil , K. Roy Ram
Published: June 2009

magnified image

A facile and convenient synthesis of 2‐aryl‐2,3‐dihydroquinolin‐4(1H)‐one and 2‐aryl‐2,3‐dihydro‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one has been described using ionic liquid catalyzed intramolecular cyclization of the corresponding 2′‐aminochalcones and 2′‐hydroxychalcones, respectively. The rapid and fairly general protocol affords product in good yield. Ionic liquid, 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, was recovered and reused without loosing its efficiency. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009)
Contribution of the trifluoroacetyl group in the thermodynamics of antigen–antibody binding
Authors: Oda Masayuki , Saito Minoru , Tsumuraya Takeshi , Fujii Ikuo
Published: June 2009

We analyzed the binding of the 7C8 antibody to the chloramphenicol phosphonate antigens—one containing a trifluoroacetyl group (CP‐F) and the other containing an acetyl group (CP‐H)—by using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). The thermodynamic difference due to the substitution of F by H was evaluated using free energy calculations based on molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. We have previously shown that another antibody, namely, 6D9, binds more weakly to CP‐H than to CP‐F, mainly due to the different hydration free energies of the dissociated state and not due to the unfavorable hydrophobic interactions with the antibody in the bound state. Unlike in the binding of the trifluoroacetyl group with 6D9, in its binding with 7C8, it is exposed to the solvent, as seen in the crystal structure of the complex of 7C8 with CP‐F. The thermodynamic analysis performed in this study showed that the binding affinity of 7C8 for CP‐H is similar to that for CP‐F, but this binding to CP‐H is accompanied with less favorable enthalpy and more favorable entropy changes. The free energy calculations indicated that, upon the substitution of F by H, enthalpy and entropy changes in the associated and dissociated states were decreased, but the magnitude of enthalpy and entropy changes in the dissociated state was larger than that in the associated state. The differences in binding free energy, enthalpy, and entropy changes determined by the free energy calculations for the substitution of F by H are in good agreement with the experimental results. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Land‐ocean contrasts in lightning activity over the Indian region
Authors: Kandalgaonkar S. S. , Kulkarni J. R. , Tinmaker M. I. R. , Kulkarni M. K.
Published: June 2009

Land‐ocean contrasts in the lightning activity over Indian land and two surrounding oceanic regions viz. Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal have been studied. Satellite‐based lightning flash data for 5‐year (1998–2002) period have been used. The study revealed that lightning activity over Bay of Bengal was three times higher than that over Arabian Sea and 9.3 times lower than that over land. The bimodal distribution is seen over Arabian Sea (peaks in April and November), and land (peaks in May and September). A unimodal distribution is observed over Bay of Bengal with peak in May. The maximum activity over Bay of Bengal occurs more at northern latitudes (28–30°N) compared with Arabian Sea (12–14°N). The land–ocean contrast is dominated by monsoon season. Comparison of lightning activity in the El Nino (2002) and La Nina year (1998–2001) shows that the lightning activity is increased by nearly 18% over the land region and it maybe attributed to in the increase in surface air temperature during the warm phase of El Nino, land sea breeze circulations and difference in the continental and the oceanic convection. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Effects of site change and urbanisation in the Beijing temperature series 1977–2006
Authors: Yan Zhongwei , Li Zhen , li Qingxiang , Jones Phil
Published: June 2009

During 1977–1981 the Beijing (BJ) meteorological station was at a suburban location. In 1981 it was moved to a more urban location, but in 1997 it was subsequently moved back to the same suburban location. The daily BJ temperature series, together with those from 18 nearby stations, form a unique database for studying how site‐change and possible urbanisation influences affect climate changes at a local scale. The site‐change‐induced biases were quantified, between 0.43 and 0.95 °C, based on comparisons between multi‐year‐mean seasonal temperature anomalies at BJ and the mean of those from a cluster of nearby stations. The annual mean urban‐suburban difference was 0.81 °C around 1981 and 0.69 °C around 1997, indicating a growing urbanisation effect in the suburban compared to the downtown area. The linear warming trend in the adjusted (for site moves only) BJ temperature series during 1977–2006 was 0.78 °C/decade. Comparing with several rural and less‐urban sites, we suggest that the BJ records include an urbanisation‐related warming bias between 0.20 and 0.54 °C/decade, likely about 0.30 °C/decade, for the recent few decades. The climatic warming at BJ between 1977 and 2006 is likely, therefore, to be about 0.48 °C/decade. Caveats for using these estimates were discussed. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Effect of fiber distribution and realignment on the nonlinear and inhomogeneous mechanical properties of human supraspinatus tendon under longitudinal tensile loading
Authors: Lake Spencer P. , Miller Kristin S. , Elliott Dawn M. , Soslowsky Louis J.
Published: June 2009

Tendon exhibits nonlinear stress–strain behavior that may be partly due to movement of collagen fibers through the extracellular matrix. While a few techniques have been developed to evaluate the fiber architecture of other soft tissues, the organizational behavior of tendon under load has not been determined. The supraspinatus tendon (SST) of the rotator cuff is of particular interest for investigation due to its complex mechanical environment and corresponding inhomogeneity. In addition, SST injury occurs frequently with limited success in treatment strategies, illustrating the need for a better understanding of SST properties. Therefore, the objective of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the inhomogeneous tensile mechanical properties, fiber organization, and fiber realignment under load of human SST utilizing a novel polarized light technique. Fiber distributions were found to become more aligned under load, particularly during the low stiffness toe‐region, suggesting that fiber realignment may be partly responsible for observed nonlinear behavior. Fiber alignment was found to correlate significantly with mechanical parameters, providing evidence for strong structure–function relationships in tendon. Human SST exhibits complex, inhomogeneous mechanical properties and fiber distributions, perhaps due to its complex loading environment. Surprisingly, histological grade of degeneration did not correlate with mechanical properties. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:1596–1602, 2009
Erratum: Spherical representation of omnipotent Smith chart
Authors: Wu Yongle , Huang Haiyu , Liu Yuanan , Gao Zehua
Published: June 2009

Originally published Microwave Opt Technol Lett 50: 2452–2455, 2008. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2255, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24515
Erratum: Selective bandpass filter with concentrated impulse response
Authors: Potrebić Milka M. , Tošić Dejan V.
Published: June 2009

Originally published Microwave Opt Technol Lett 50: 2772–2777, 2008. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2255, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24516
Compact monopole antenna for dual ISM‐bands (2.4 and 5.8 GHz) operation
Authors: Jung Jinwoo , Lee Hyeonjin , Lim Yeongseog
Published: June 2009

A compact monopole antenna for dual ISM band operation is demonstrated experimentally and numerically. An efficient method for dual band operation of an antenna is presented. Experimental results indicate that the achieved VSWR 2:1 bandwidths were 330 MHz (2.33 to 2.66 GHz) and 420 MHz (5.55 to 5.97 GHz), respectively. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2227–2229, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24519
Design and optimization of Fresnel zone plates using a genetic algorithm and a full‐electromagnetic simulator
Authors: Reid David R. , Smith Glenn S.
Published: June 2009

The optimization of Fresnel zone plates using a genetic algorithm and a the body‐of‐revolution, finite‐difference time‐domain simulator is studied. This technique is applied to zone plates for use in a free‐space, focused‐beam system to measure the electrical properties of materials. The results are compared with a traditionally designed zone plate and a doubly hyperbolic lens. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2223–2227, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24520
Multiband notebook computer antenna design by FDTD method for GSM/WCDMA system applications
Authors: Huang Jhin‐Fang , Wen Jiun‐Yu , Lin Sheng‐Chih
Published: June 2009

In this study, a simple structure designed antenna for 2G and 3G mobile communication applied to notebook computer (NB) is proposed and analyzed by finite difference time domain (FDTD). The proposed antenna has great characteristics of simple structure, easy production, low cost, good impedance matching, and wideband frequency. The antenna main structure is printed on 0.8 mm with permittivity 4.4 FR4 single‐sided PCB, which is bonded to metal bracket. This proposed antenna covers GSM 850/900/1800/1900 and WCDMA multibands and satisfies NB wireless wide area network system. Both FDTD simulation and measurement show that the antenna gain is 2.2 dB for 800 MHz band and 4.6 dB for 1800 MHz band. The 3‐dB passbands are about 136 (824–960 MHz) and 460 MHz (1710–2170 MHz), respectively. The bandwidth of each passband is matched with the desirable values for the NB multiband requirement. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2212–2216, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24521
A novel Gaussian interpolation formula‐based IE‐FFT algorithm for solving EM scattering problems
Authors: Lai Ben , An Xiang , Yuan Hao‐Bo , Chen Zeng‐Shuai , Huang Chun‐Ming , Liang Chang‐Hong
Published: June 2009

The fast Fourier transform‐based integral equation algorithm (IE‐FFT) is a recently developed fast algorithm to solve electrically large problems. The key of the IE‐FFT algorithm is to choose a proper interpolation method, since it not only determines the algorithm's accuracy but also influences the computational complexity and the memory requirement directly. In this article, a novel Gaussian interpolation formula is proposed to optimize the IE‐FFT algorithm for solving EM scattering problems. Compared with the Lagrange interpolation, it can bring with higher accuracy and less memory costs. Furthermore, this interpolation scheme is also well suited for the higher‐order hierarchical basis functions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2233–2236, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24523
Theory and design of a tunable Quasi‐Lumped Quadrature Coupler
Authors: Ferrero Fabien , Luxey Cyril , Staraj Robert , Jacquemod Gilles , Yedlin Matthew , Fusco Vincent
Published: June 2009

In this article, we present the theory and a design methodology for a tunable Quasi‐Lumped Quadrature Coupler (QLQC). Because of its topology, the coupler is simply reconfigured by switching the bias of two varactor diodes via a very simple DC bias circuitry. No additional capacitors or inductors are required. A prototype at 3.5 GHz is etched on a 0.130‐mm‐thick layer substrate with a dielectric material of relative permittivity of 2.22. The simulated and measured scattering parameters are presented. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2219–2222, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24526
Effect of modulated frequency on ringdown spectrum of single‐mode fiber Fabry‐Perot cavity
Authors: Chen Haiyan
Published: June 2009

The effect of modulated signal frequency on ringdown spectrum of a single‐mode fiber Fabry‐Perot cavity is discussed experimentally. It demonstrates that the beat period is independent of modulated frequency, but the observed beat number is related to modulated frequency. The observed beat number decreases with the increase of modulated frequency. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2216–2219, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24527
Microwave characteristics of substrate integrated waveguide photodetector
Authors: Mortazy Ebrahim , Wu Ke
Published: June 2009

In this article, using a novel structure, simulated and measured microwave characteristics from substrate integrated waveguide photodetector (SIWPD) are obtained and compared with the conventional microstrip waveguide photodetector. A Ka‐band microstrip to rectangular waveguide multilayer transition for OC‐768/STM‐256 optical systems is designed and fabricated. Attenuation constant results shows that by replacing substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) instead of conventional microstrip in waveguide photodetectors, operation frequency can be increased. Microwave fields in the proposed structure show a good transition from quasi‐TEM mode to TE10 mode in multilayer structure. The multilayer structure is considered to separate SIW and DC bias of the photodetector. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2204–2207, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24528
Multiband loop antenna design for mobile devices
Authors: Sim Chow‐Yen‐Desmond , Cheng Po‐Chun , Lee Ching‐Her
Published: June 2009

The design of a novel microstrip‐fed planar antenna for mobile devices operating within the GSM/PCS/DCS/UMTS band is proposed. Besides covering the WLAN, WiBro, and WiMAX spectra, its multiband features are also capable of operating in the GPS/GLONASS and MSS bands if navigation and satellite telecommunication applications are required. Impedance matching for these cases are simply achieved by tuning the slit embedded in the ground plane directly beneath the microstrip feed line. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2242–2248, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24529
A K‐band low‐noise amplifier in 0.18‐μm CMOS technology for SUB‐1‐V operation
Authors: Jin Jun‐De , Hsu Shawn S. H.
Published: June 2009

A K‐band low‐noise amplifier (LNA) was realized in a standard 0.18‐μm CMOS technology. The cascaded common‐source configuration of four stages was adopted for low voltage operation and high gain performance. In addition, the gate‐source transformer feedback technique was employed to achieve a low noise figure (NF), which also enabled a single power supply operation and without using any resistive components. Under a supply voltage of only 0.8 V and a DC power consumption PDC of 12.6 mW, the measured gain and NF are 14.5 and 5.3 dB at 21 GHz, respectively. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2202–2204, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24530
Using selective Zn diffusion to enhance the performance of the photodiode in InP/InGaAs PD/HBT integration
Authors: Huang Shou‐Chien , Huang Wei‐Kuo , Hsin Yue‐Ming , Shi Jin‐Wei
Published: June 2009

In this work, the selective Zn diffusion process is applied in the conventional p‐i‐n PD/HBT structure to improve the PD's performance. Without Zn diffusion, the top‐illuminated PD need higher reverse bias to delay the screen effect. With Zn diffusion, the −3 dB bandwidth can be extended to higher frequency at middle and high photocurrent under lower reverse bias. Even under higher reverse bias, it still has better performance at higher photocurrent. The −3 dB bandwidth at 9 mA output current extends from 5 to 10.7 GHz at reverse bias of 1 V and from 4.7 to 11.5 GHz at reverse bias of 2 V. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2200–2202, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24531
Design of a linear nonuniform CPW‐fed slot array with reduced sidelobe levels
Authors: Jacobs J. P. , Joubert J.
Published: June 2009

A linear nonuniform CPW‐fed slot array was designed using an iterative procedure. Theoretical and measured highest sidelobe levels of about −17 dB and −16 dB, respectively, were achieved. These are substantially lower than that of previously reported arrays of this sort, validating the accuracy of the approximate method—permitted by the electrically thin substrate—used to calculate mutual coupling. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2175–2178, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24532
Analysis and design of compact third‐order intermodulation generation circuits
Authors: Park Hyun‐Chul , Jung Sung‐Chan , Lim Kyung‐Hoon , Kim Min‐Su , Kim Hyungchul , Park Cheon‐Seok , Yang Youngoo
Published: June 2009

In this article, we analyzed and designed miniaturized third‐order intermodulation distortion (IM3) generation circuits. An antiparallel Schottky diode pair was adopted for nonlinearity generation. A reflective configuration using a 90° hybrid coupler was employed to acquire a pure IM3 signal at the output. The fundamental signal at the output was automatically suppressed below the IM3 level using a reflective load optimized for the fundamental impedance of the antiparallel diode pair. The IM3 generation characteristics were fully analyzed using the Volterra series under a weak nonlinear assumption. A new optimum matching condition of the reflective load for the perfect fundamental cancellation was derived. A miniaturized 12 × 14 mm2 IM3 generator was designed and implemented for the 2.16 GHz band, based on the analysis results. The output performance measured for the implemented IM3 generator matched the calculated results. The IM3 generator showed excellent fundamental cancellation characteristics and had a wide operational range for the input signal level. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2137–2140, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24535